- The first step in the pigment production process often involves mining or sourcing the raw materials. Natural pigments are extracted from the earth, while synthetic pigments are synthesized in laboratories using complex chemical reactions. Once obtained, these materials undergo purification to remove impurities, ensuring the highest quality and consistency.
A 2023 study published in the journal Environmental Research, scientists examined the effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on important gut bacteria in mice. Their results showed “the growth inhibitory effects could be associated with cell membrane damage caused by titanium dioxide nanoparticles to the bacterial strains. Metabolomics analysis showed that TiO2 NPs caused alterations in multiple metabolic pathways of gut bacteria, such as tryptophan and arginine metabolism, which were demonstrated to play crucial roles in regulating gut and host health.” The researchers also found that four different neuroprotective metabolites “were significantly reduced” in urine and in vitro bacteria and vivo urine samples. The researchers concluded: “Increasing evidence implies that the gut microbiome plays a profound role in regulating host metabolism. Our results illustrated that TiO2 NPs hindered the growth of four beneficial gut bacterial strains.”
- Utility Requirements and Costs


Edelweiss, 14.5 per cent zinc sulphide, 84 per cent barium sulphate, 1.5 per cent carbonate of lime.
Moreover, a 2019 study noted that food-grade titanium dioxide was larger and not nanoparticles. Hence, the authors concluded that any titanium dioxide in food is absorbed poorly, posing no risk to human health (3Trusted Source).
The Health Concern

≥ 5 % of standard sample
6.0-8.0
In cosmetics, titanium dioxide’s properties enhance coloration and can help protect skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Health advocates urge US regulators to ban common food coloring additive, by Tom Perkins, The Guardian, June 2, 2023
R-996 titanium dioxide, white powder, insoluble in water, non-physiological toxicity, chemically stable, with excellent weather resistance and anti-powdering ability.
6.0-8.0
To be added to food, this additive must achieve 99% purity. However, this leaves room for small amounts of potential contaminants like lead, arsenic, or mercury (1Trusted Source).