At a glance: Neither colloidal silver is always banned nor colloidal silver is always allowed is an accurate general answer. This guide concerns Germany and the EU; other markets may have different rules.
Start with the actual product
Composition, particle size, presentation, intended purpose and the country of sale affect classification. A technical dispersion differs from an ingestible product, a cosmetic or a preparation presented as treating disease.
Changing the name does not remove the requirements. Product pages, labels, advertisements and related claims all contribute to how a product is presented.
Foods and food supplements
Novel foods and novel ingredients generally require authorisation before being placed on the EU market. The status must be checked for the specific substance and form; calling a liquid a supplement does not establish that it is permitted or safe.
BfR has specifically stated that nanosilver is not authorised for use in foods. This should not be confused with rules for other defined silver uses or forms. Businesses remain responsible for lawful ingredients, safety and labelling.
Medicines and disease claims
A product presented as treating or preventing disease may be classified as a medicine by presentation, bringing medicinal-product requirements into play. A disclaimer at the bottom of a page does not cancel disease claims elsewhere.
German therapeutic advertising law also prohibits misleading claims, including assigning therapeutic effects that a product does not have. The legal assessment depends on the actual wording and context, not a generic disclaimer.
Silver in EU cosmetics
Regulation (EU) 2026/78 applies from 1 May 2026. It lists silver nano with a particle diameter above 1 nm and up to 100 nm, and massive silver at or above 1 mm, among prohibited cosmetic substances. Defined powder-sized silver has restricted uses and conditions in the relevant annexes.
Earlier Regulation (EU) 2024/858 already addressed colloidal silver in nanoform. Particle characterisation is therefore legally relevant. Scientific advice from the SCCS is not itself a change to the law or permission to market every silver cream.
Biocides and medical products
Disinfectant or other biocidal claims may bring a product within biocidal rules. Relevant active-substance and product authorisations, or applicable transitional arrangements, must be considered.
A medical dressing follows the requirements for its particular category and intended purpose. Its status does not confer permission on a different spray, liquid or cosmetic.
Practical questions for a product assessment
- What exactly is the substance and particle form?
- What use is described on the label and in advertising?
- Which legal category and market apply?
- Which authorisation, conformity or safety documentation is relevant?
- Are the claims supported and consistent across the presentation?
Date and scope
Editorial legal review: 4 October 2026. This is a general explanation, not a product-specific legal opinion. The applicable legislation and the actual product need to be checked together before market decisions are made.
Frequently asked questions
Does this assessment apply worldwide?
No. This guide concerns Germany and the EU. Other countries may use different categories, requirements and restrictions.
Does an SCCS opinion change the law?
No. Scientific advice and applicable legislation are distinct. A favourable assessment under specific conditions does not automatically authorise a product for sale.
Related guides
- What is colloidal silver? Particles, ions and PPM explained
- Colloidal silver myths: eight common claims checked
- How colloidal silver affects the body: absorption, accumulation and risks
Sources and further reading
- European Commission: novel foods
- BfR: nanosilver safety information (German)
- BfArM: disease claims and medicinal classification (German)
- German Therapeutic Products Advertising Act, section 3
- EUR-Lex: Regulation 2026/78
- EU Regulation 2024/858: nanomaterials in cosmetics
Editorial update: 4 October 2026. General information; not an individual diagnosis, treatment, ingestion or dosage recommendation.