What Is Titanium Dioxide and Why Is It in Food?
Titanium dioxide (TiO2), also known as E171 in Europe, is a white powdered pigment derived from naturally occurring mineral ores. It is used in a vast array of products, from paints and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals and foods, primarily for its powerful whitening and opacifying properties. In the food industry, it serves a purely aesthetic purpose, enhancing the color and brightness of foods like candies, chewing gum, baked goods, and sauces. It can also help prevent clumping in powdered foods.
Food-grade titanium dioxide is a mixture of particles of varying sizes, which includes a percentage of nanoparticles (particles less than 100 nanometers).
The International Regulatory Divide on E171
There is a notable difference in conclusions reached by major regulatory bodies globally.
The European Union's Ban
In 2021, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published an updated safety assessment of E171. Concerns about genotoxicity led EFSA to conclude it was no longer safe as a food additive. Its use in food has been banned in the EU since August 2022.
The United States' Continued Approval
In the US, the FDA permits titanium dioxide as a color additive, not exceeding 1% of the food's weight. The FDA's evaluations haven't identified a hazard to health based on total daily intake from available data.
Other Global Positions
Health Canada's 2022 review and Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) found no conclusive safety concerns. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) indicated no identifiable hazard. More information can be found at {Link: foodstandards.gov.au https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/consumer/foodtech/Review-of-titanium-dioxide-as-a-food-additive}, {Link: efsa.europa.eu https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/titanium-dioxide-e171-no-longer-considered-safe-when-used-food-additive}, {Link: usrtk.org https://usrtk.org/chemicals/titanium-dioxide/}, {Link: healthline.com https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/titanium-dioxide-in-food} and {Link: ndtv.com https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/why-is-titanium-dioxide-in-candy-a-big-deal-skittles-drops-the-controversial-ingredient-8535988}.
Health Concerns: Genotoxicity and Nanoparticles
Concerns about food-grade titanium dioxide often focus on its nanoparticle content. Nanoparticles can behave differently due to their size.
Genotoxicity and DNA Damage
Genotoxicity remains a key point of discussion. While EFSA's 2021 opinion noted potential DNA damage concerns, other experts, like the UK's Committee on Mutagenicity, have found less evidence for genotoxicity, particularly from oral exposure. Differences in testing methods contribute to conflicting data.
Accumulation and Inflammation
Animal studies have shown that ingested titanium dioxide nanoparticles can accumulate in organs, raising concerns about potential long-term effects like inflammation. Studies in mice have linked oral exposure to gut changes and inflammation, though these often use doses higher than typical human intake.
Chronic Toxicity and Carcinogenicity
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies TiO2 as Group 2B ('possibly carcinogenic to humans'), based on inhalation studies, not dietary intake. A National Cancer Institute feeding study found no evidence of cancer from oral exposure.
How to Avoid Titanium Dioxide in Your Diet
Avoiding titanium dioxide (E171) involves checking ingredient lists for either name. Be aware of vague labeling like "artificial color". Choosing organic foods or reducing processed food intake can also help, as these often contain E171.
Comparative Review: EFSA vs. FDA Stances
| Assessment Area | European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) | US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) |
|---|---|---|
| Genotoxicity (DNA Damage) | Concern could not be ruled out due to potential nanoparticle accumulation. | Did not identify concerns, noting different methodologies used in studies. |
| Carcinogenicity | Cites inhalation risks for workers, but lacks conclusive dietary data. | Notes that oral studies (like NTP) showed no carcinogenicity. |
| Nanoparticles | Believes nanoparticles within food-grade TiO2 pose potential risks. | Deems nanoparticle-specific studies irrelevant to food-grade ingestion. |
| Oral Absorption | Acknowledges absorption is low but notes potential for accumulation. | Cites low absorption rates in general. |
| Regulatory Action | Banned use of E171 in food starting in August 2022. | Continues to allow use up to 1% of food's weight. |
Conclusion
The safety of consuming titanium dioxide (E171) is debated globally. The EU has banned it due to potential genotoxicity concerns, particularly from nanoparticles, while bodies like the FDA, Health Canada, and JECFA consider it safe within limits. Differing scientific interpretations contribute to this divergence. Consumers can avoid it by reading labels and reducing processed food intake. Regulations may be reviewed as research progresses.
