Common Chewing Gums with Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide (TiO2), also known as the food additive E171, has been a common ingredient in many confectionery products, including chewing gum. Its primary function is to serve as a whitening and opacifying agent, giving gum a bright, appealing color and a smooth, uniform appearance. While its use is becoming less widespread due to increasing health concerns, particularly in Europe, several brands have been known to include it.
Prominent brands historically containing titanium dioxide
- Trident White: This gum, specifically designed for whitening teeth, has been cited in studies for containing titanium dioxide in its peppermint flavor.
- Orbit: Ingredients for Orbit gum, such as the Strong Mint flavor, have been noted to include titanium dioxide. Other flavors, like Bubblemint, have also included it.
- Dentyne Ice: Certain varieties of Dentyne Ice, such as peppermint, have been identified as containing this chemical.
- Mentos Freshmint Gum: This brand was specifically mentioned as having high concentrations of titanium dioxide in past tests.
- Dubble Bubble Gum Balls: The classic fruit-flavored gum balls have also been known to contain titanium dioxide.
- Stride Sugar-Free Gum: The spearmint variety of this sugar-free gum was also listed as an example of a product with titanium dioxide.
It is important for consumers to check the most current ingredient list on packaging, as manufacturers' formulations can change over time in response to market demands and regulatory pressures.
The Controversy Surrounding Titanium Dioxide
The presence of titanium dioxide in food, including chewing gum, has been a subject of significant debate and regulatory scrutiny, leading to a split in global policy.
Why the concern?
- Nanoparticle accumulation: The primary concern comes from the potential for titanium dioxide nanoparticles to accumulate in the body over time. A 2021 review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) could not rule out genotoxicity concerns—the ability of a chemical substance to damage genetic material.
- Potential health risks: While evidence is not entirely conclusive, animal studies and some reviews have linked titanium dioxide nanoparticles to potential health issues, including inflammation, immune system effects, and disruption of gut microbiota.
- Lack of transparency: In some cases, labels might use general terms like “color added,” making it difficult for consumers to identify titanium dioxide.
Regulation: Europe vs. the United States
The most significant factor determining whether a gum contains titanium dioxide is the market in which it is sold. The regulatory landscape has diverged dramatically between the EU and the US.
The EU ban
Following the 2021 EFSA report, the EU banned the use of titanium dioxide (E171) as a food additive starting in 2022. This means that any chewing gum produced and sold within the European Union is now free of this additive, and manufacturers have shifted to alternative ingredients.
The US stance
In contrast, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to recognize titanium dioxide as “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) for use in food, up to 1% by weight. While petitions have been filed to ban the substance in the US, the FDA has maintained its position, stating that available safety studies do not demonstrate concerns at current usage levels.
Table of Regulatory Differences
| Feature | European Union | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) | Food and Drug Administration (FDA) |
| Status in Food | Banned in all food products as of 2022. | Approved as a color additive; “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS). |
| Reason for Ban | Safety concerns regarding genotoxicity, nanoparticle accumulation. | Deemed safe at regulated levels (up to 1%) based on available evidence. |
| Impact on Chewing Gum | Manufacturers removed titanium dioxide entirely. | Some manufacturers continue to use it in products. |
| Alternative Ingredients | Manufacturers use calcium carbonate, rice starch. | Alternatives are used by some companies, but not universally. |
Finding Chewing Gum Without Titanium Dioxide
For consumers who wish to avoid titanium dioxide, a number of brands and types of gum offer alternative ingredients or use none at all. Choosing naturally sourced options is one of the most reliable strategies.
Alternatives and brands to look for
- Natural brands: Many health-conscious or natural brands, like Xylichew, specifically advertise that they are free of titanium dioxide, often relying on natural sweeteners like birch xylitol instead.
- Calcium carbonate: Some manufacturers have switched to using calcium carbonate as a whitening and opacifying agent, a natural mineral that provides similar effects.
- Look for 'E171-Free' labels: In regions where titanium dioxide is still permitted, some brands may market themselves as being free of the additive to appeal to informed consumers.
Key steps to check for titanium dioxide
- Read the ingredients list: Look specifically for “titanium dioxide” or its European code, “E171.”
- Look for certifications: Some brands might have certifications indicating they are free of artificial colors or additives.
- Opt for natural brands: Brands emphasizing natural ingredients are less likely to contain controversial additives like titanium dioxide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while many mainstream chewing gums, particularly in the United States, have contained titanium dioxide to enhance their visual appeal, consumer demand and regulatory action are shifting the landscape. The European Union's ban on the additive, based on genotoxicity concerns, has led to reformulation, while US regulations continue to permit its use. For health-conscious individuals, checking ingredient labels and choosing brands that explicitly market themselves as free from artificial colors remains the best strategy for avoiding titanium dioxide in chewing gum. This divergence in policy underscores the importance of staying informed about what goes into consumer products across different markets.
For further reading on food additives and regulations, a great resource is the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) database, which provides detailed information on chemicals in consumer products.
Lists of Gums with and Without Titanium Dioxide
Gums Historically Containing Titanium Dioxide (Check Local Formulation)
- Trident White (Peppermint)
- Orbit (Strong Mint, Bubblemint)
- Mentos Freshmint Gum
- Dentyne Ice (Peppermint)
- Dubble Bubble Gum Balls
- Stride Sugar-Free (Spearmint)
Gums Typically Free of Titanium Dioxide (Confirm Label)
- Xylichew (Various flavors)
- Blue®m Dental Chewing Gum
- Simply Gum
- Pur Gum
- Some specific formulations of popular brands may have been updated, so label reading is essential.
