In a review published in 2022 in the journal Archives of Toxicology, researchers found that the ingestion of E171 is a “a definite health risk for consumers and their progeny.” After reviewing dozens of in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro studies on the toxicity of E171, the researchers wrote that two facts must be noted: “First, reprotoxicity studies show that animals of both sexes are impacted by the toxicity of these nanoparticles, underlining the importance of conducting in vivo studies using both male and female animals. Second, human exposure begins in utero via maternal-fetal transfer and continues after birth by breastfeeding. Children are then chronically re-exposed due to their food preferences. To be relevant to the human in vivo situation, experimental studies should therefore consider nanoparticle exposure with respect to the age or life period of the studied population.”

Promotion of obesity-related metabolic disorders

In a 2017 study published in Scientific Reports, researchers exposed rats to human-relevant levels of E171 to examine the effects of intestinal inflammation and carcinogenesis. They saw that “a 100-day E171 treatment promoted colon microinflammation and initiated preneoplastic lesions while also fostering the growth of aberrant crypt foci in a chemically induced carcinogenesis model.” They continued: “Stimulation of immune cells isolated from Peyer’s Patches [which are clusters of lymphoid follicles found in the intestine] showed a decrease in Thelper (Th)-1 IFN-γ secretion, while splenic Th1/Th17 inflammatory responses sharply increased,” researchers wrote. “A 100-day titanium dioxide treatment promoted colon microinflammation and initiated preneoplastic lesions.” The scientists concluded: “These data should be considered for risk assessments of the susceptibility to Th17-driven autoimmune diseases and to colorectal cancer in humans exposed to TiO2 from dietary sources.”

In 2023, the demand for titanium dioxide is expected to reach new heights. One of the main drivers of this growth is the cosmetics and personal care industry. Titanium dioxide is widely used in sunscreens, skin care products and cosmetics for its excellent UV protection properties and ability to provide a smooth surface. With growing awareness of the harmful effects of UV radiation, consumers are increasingly inclined to invest in products with sun protection. This trend is expected to drive the demand for titanium dioxide over the next few years.

The report provides insights into the landscape of the lithopone industry at the global level. The report also provides a segment-wise and region-wise breakup of the global lithopone industry. Additionally, it also provides the price analysis of feedstocks used in the manufacturing of lithopone, along with the industry profit margins.

Studies of titanium dioxide as a food additive suggest health dangers

The MBR9668 coating offers a range of advantages for manufacturers in the coatings industry. Primarily, its high hiding power allows for the efficient application of thinner layers, reducing material consumption and operational costs. This cost efficiency does not come at the expense of quality; the coating ensures a uniform finish with excellent opacity and gloss. Furthermore, the durability imparted by MBR9668 means that coatings will not only maintain their aesthetic appeal but also resist environmental stresses such as weathering, moisture, and chemical exposure.

Decreased Vitamin D bioaccessibility 

zinc oxide content, %

5. Is EFSA banning titanium dioxide?