Overview
ISO/TS 13830:2013 - Nanotechnologies - Guidance on voluntary labelling for consumer products containing manufactured nano-objects - provides a harmonized, voluntary framework for labelling consumer products containing manufactured nano-objects (PCMNOs). The Technical Specification clarifies scope (excludes naturally occurring or incidental nano-objects), emphasizes transparency and non-misleading communication, and sets out principles for what manufacturers and suppliers may disclose on product labels and packaging.
Key Topics
- Scope and definitions: clear terms such as manufactured nano-object (MNO), nanoscale (approximately 1 nm to 100 nm) and PCMNO are defined with reference to ISO vocabulary.
- Identification and description: guidance on how to declare nano-content, e.g. using “nano” or “nanoscale” before/after ingredient names or the phrase “contains manufactured nano-objects”. Where available, labels may include concise descriptions of intended effects (benefits and risk aspects).
- Instructions for use: recommended inclusion of handling, maintenance, storage, cleaning or disposal advice if nano-content changes normal practice.
- Emergency and first-aid: advise on whether nano-content alters emergency response or first-aid procedures compared with non-nano equivalents.
- Supply-chain information: obligations to obtain and retain substantiating information from suppliers, literature or validated data to support label claims.
- Format and placement: labelling must be visible, legible, durable and provided in the official language(s) of the market; labels may be on product or packaging as appropriate.
- Voluntary nature and legal context: the specification is guidance only and does not supersede mandatory regulatory labelling requirements.
Applications
ISO/TS 13830:2013 is practical for:
- Manufacturers and brand owners deciding whether and how to disclose manufactured nano-objects on consumer product labels.
- Downstream suppliers, distributors and retailers who need to verify and communicate nano-content to consumers.
- Product safety and compliance teams integrating voluntary labelling with existing legal and safety requirements.
- Consumer organisations and NGOs seeking a consistent approach to transparency on nanotechnology in consumer goods.
Typical use cases include product declarations for consumer goods where nanotechnology is intentionally added, supporting informed purchasing and safe use.
Related standards
Relevant documents to consult alongside ISO/TS 13830:2013:
ISO/TS 13830:2013 helps organizations implement consistent, transparent voluntary labelling practices for nano-enabled consumer products while aligning with broader nanotechnology vocabularies and safety guidance.