Antimicrobial nanoemulsions of stinging nettle essential oil (SNEO) were developed. The nanoemulsions containing Tween 40 had an initial average droplet size < 50 nm. Release percentage depended on the surfactant/oil ratio and emulsion droplet size. The nanoemulsions showed a remarkable storage stability and good bioaccessibility. Nano-emulsification: an effective delivery system for SNEO in functional products.