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.

Sunscreens and cosmetics containing titanium dioxide are generally considered safe since they are mineral-based products. Mineral products are often recommended for acne-prone and sensitive skin. However, there have been some concerns that titanium dioxide may have a negative impact on health.

Asia

Lithopone, white powder, relative density: 4.136 ~ 4.39 g / mL, insoluble in water. It is a mixture of zinc sulfide and barium sulfate. Inorganic white pigment, widely used in plastics such as polyolefin, vinyl resin, ABS resin, polystyrene, polycarbonate, nylon and polyoxymethylene, and white pigments of paints and inks. It is less effective in polyurethane and amino resins and less suitable in fluoroplastics. It is also used for coloring of rubber products, paper, varnish, tarpaulin, leather, watercolor paint, paper, enamel, and the like. Used as a binder in the production of electric beads.

Size, Share, Competitive Landscape and Trend Analysis Report by Application (Paints and Coatings, Plastics, Printing Inks, Paper and Pulps, Rubber, Leather, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027

The European Commission banned titanium dioxide as a food additive in the EU in 2022 after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted an updated safety assessment of E171 and concluded the panel could not eliminate concerns about its genotoxicity. 

Top 10 Chinese TiO2 exporters in 2016

Although the evidence for general toxic effects was not conclusive, on the basis of the new data and strengthened methods our scientists could not rule out a concern for genotoxicity and consequently they could not establish a safe level for daily intake of TiO₂ as a food additive.

Although the evidence for general toxic effects was not conclusive, on the basis of the new data and strengthened methods our scientists could not rule out a concern for genotoxicity and consequently they could not establish a safe level for daily intake of TiO₂ as a food additive.

The price trendss for titanium dioxide kept on the lower side of the scale during the first half of 2023. As the paint and coatings industries reduced their offtakes,  the abundant supply of the product in the market led to a fall in prices. The prices also suffered from falling energy costs and declining freight charges. Further, the rising speculations of a global recession caused manufacturers to participate actively in destocking.