The assessment was conducted following a rigorous methodology and taking into consideration many thousands of studies that have become available since EFSA’s previous assessment in 2016, including new scientific evidence and data on nanoparticles.
- Overall, titanium dioxide plays a critical role in the paper industry by improving the quality, performance, and appearance of a wide range of paper products. Its unique optical properties make it a valuable additive for enhancing the whiteness, brightness, and opacity of paper, while also providing important functional benefits such as print quality, show-through prevention, and light stability.


States looking to ban titanium dioxide as a food additive
Pigmentary TiO2 particles are approximately 200-350nm in dimension and this form accounts for 98 percent of total production. It is used mainly for light scattering and surface opacity applications. It is used as a base for various colour paints or as a standalone ‘brilliant’ white.
According to Procurement Resource, the prices of titanium dioxide are expected to showcase mixed sentiments. With trade and supply-chain normalization, the automotive and construction sectors are estimated to improve their global performance, thus affecting the prices positively.
In addition to its physical properties, titanium dioxide also has environmental benefits. As a non-toxic compound, it is safe to use in homes, offices and public places. Coatings formulated with titanium dioxide contain virtually no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring minimal impact on indoor air quality and human health. Additionally, due to their long-lasting nature, titanium dioxide-infused paints can help create a more sustainable environment by reducing waste and the need for frequent repainting.
0.3% Max
It is recommended to store Titanium Dioxide in a well-maintained and dry environment, safeguarding it from exposure to elevated temperatures, open flames, or aromatic chemicals. When transporting Titanium Dioxide pigments, they are commonly packaged in paper bags weighing 25 kg (50 lb) or in large bags constructed from woven polypropylene materials.
Lithopone was discovered in the 1870s by DuPont. It was manufactured by Krebs Pigments and Chemical Company and other companies.[2] The material came in different seals, which varied in the content of zinc sulfide. Gold seal and Bronze seals contain 40-50% zinc sulfide, offering more hiding power and strength.[3] Although its popularity peaked around 1920, approximately 223,352 tons were produced in 1990. It is mainly used in paints, putty, and in plastics.[1]




Fig. 5. ROS values (Abs of NBT) in samples of MSSA treated with A: 0.2 mg/mL P25TiO2NPs; B: 0.02 mg/mL P25TiO2NPs; C: 0.2 mg/mL VitaminB2@P25TiO2NPs; D: 0.02 mg/mL VitaminB2@P25TiO2NPs after 3 h of irradiation (red) and 6 h (blue). SD < 0.20 and p < 0.05 between C-D and A-B.
Well asides from making you re-think that M & M addiction (chocolate coated in Titanium Dioxide…..anyone?!)

lithopone 28-30% factory.

According to the EFSA's Expert Panel on Food Additives and Flavorings 2021 opinion regarding titanium dioxide, it could not rule out a concern for genotoxicity from ingestion of the material based on a perceived gap in data on this risk, which serves as the basis for current ban, said a March report on the decision.
Lithopone is produced by coprecipitation of barium sulfate and zinc sulfide. Most commonly coprecipitation is effected by combining equimolar amounts of zinc sulfate and barium sulfide:
You can find more information about EFSA’s work in the area of food additives on our website