The UK House of Lords Science & Technology Committee has urged the food companies not to remain secretive regarding the use of nanotechnology.

The committee said food companies should reveal the use of nanotechnology, which is used to improve the flavor and texture of food. Nanotechnology also helps food companies in increasing the self life of their products.

Lord Krebs, who chaired the House of Lords inquiry, said, "They got their fingers burnt over the use of GM crops and so they want to keep a low profile on this issue."

Lord Krebs further added that if the food companies wanted to build confidence then they must tell regulators about their work on nanotechnology.

The report of inquiry also said that food companies' refusal to disclose their nanotechnology research create fear and suspision.

The influential group of peers also called more government-backed research into possible health hazards due to the use of nanotechnology in the food industry.