Some consumer advocacy groups and health agencies — particularly, those at the Environmental Working Group — have been pushing federal officers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reconsider their existing rules on the additive, which is commonly found in processed snacks and sweets.

While loose titanium dioxide presents a problem, titanium dioxide within sunscreen formulations presents a much safer option than conventional sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. However, titanium dioxide may become dangerous when it is nanoparticle size. Generally, nanoparticles can be 1000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Despite nanoparticles becoming increasingly common across industries, they have not been properly assessed for human or environmental health effects, nor are they adequately regulated. Researchers don’t quite understand the impacts nanoparticles could have on human health and the environment. However, because of their infinitesimally small size, nanoparticles may be more chemically reactive and therefore more bioavailable, and may behave differently than larger particles of the same substance; these characteristics may lead to potential damage in the human body or ecosystem.

Titanium dioxide mainly comes from the earth’s crust, where it’s actually the ninth most common element. When processed, it becomes a fine powder with a vibrant white pigment.

I don't see the scientific evidence in the literature that would cause people any concern, said Kaminski.

FAQ – EFSA 2021 safety assessment of titanium dioxide (E171)

Because of their small size, nanoparticles may have unique physical and chemical properties. These properties may cause them to interact with living systems differently than larger materials with the same chemical composition (also known as bulk materials).

The R996 grade titanium dioxide from Lomon is particularly well-suited for use in the paint industry due to its superior tinting strength and dispersibility. These properties allow paint manufacturers to achieve vibrant and consistent colors in their products, resulting in high-quality finishes for a variety of applications.

Chinese anatase titanium dioxide has become a popular topic in the field of materials science due to its unique properties and wide range of applications. Anatase titanium dioxide is a type of titanium dioxide with the chemical formula TiO2, and is known for its high refractive index, excellent UV resistance, and good photocatalytic activity.

TiO₂ possesses different qualities depending on whether it is produced as a pigment or a nanomaterial. Both forms are tasteless, odourless and insoluble.

Nanotoxicology 

Lithopone is an inorganic white pigment, obtained from co-precipitation of Zinc sulfide (ZnS) and Barium sulfate (BaSO4). Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) has replaced Lithopone as a white pigment in majority applications as TiO2 is more durable. However, it is much cheaper than TiO2 and has advantages such as low binder requirement and good dispensability. As a white pigment, it can improve the substrate's weather resistance, and improve the fungicidal properties of paint formulations. Some of the major applications of Lithopone include manufacturing of paint pigments, plastic & rubber products, paper, printing inks, cosmetics, and leather & linoleum products. It is commercially available under names such as pigment white 5, Barium zinc sulfate sulfide, Becton White, C.I. 77115, Charlton White, Enamel White, and Zincolith. On the basis of content of ZnS, Lithopone is available at 28%-30% Lithopone and 60% Lithopone.

Aside from the attributes we mentioned above, titanium dioxide is known for its durability, which can create a pigment that’s extra long-lasting. On top of that, combined with other colors, titanium dioxide can instantly amplify color by providing intensity and brightness. That has made it particularly popular for foundation and lipstick formulas.

The market for anatase titanium dioxide has expanded significantly over the years, driven by growing demand from various sectors. Manufacturers are now focusing on optimizing the production processes to enhance the quality and performance of anatase TiO2. This includes advancements in synthesis methods to produce nanoparticles with improved dispersion and stability. Companies are investing in research and development to innovate new applications, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable materials.

What does titanium dioxide do? 

However, the use of titanium dioxide has also raised concerns about its potential impact on human health and the environment. Some studies have suggested that titanium dioxide nanoparticles may have harmful effects when inhaled or ingested. Manufacturers of titanium dioxide are therefore taking steps to minimize the risk of exposure and develop safer products.