CAS registration number: 1345-05-7

States looking to ban titanium dioxide as a food additive

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CSPI says it might reconsider its rating if specifications for food-grade titanium dioxide in the U.S. are updated to ensure nanoparticles are minimized, and new studies are conducted to assess its capacity to cause cancer or other health problems. 

New Safety Rulings & Regulations

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the development of novel applications for Chinese anatase titanium dioxide, such as in the field of energy storage and conversion. For example, it has been investigated as a potential electrode material for lithium-ion batteries, due to its high conductivity and stability. Furthermore, its photocatalytic activity has been explored for use in dye-sensitized solar cells, where it can help to improve the efficiency of solar energy conversion.

The toxicity of P25TiO₂NPs under UV radiation could be even higher when combined with other usual components of sunscreens Indeed, Soler de la Vega et al. advise that combination with parabens increases the toxicity of the final cosmetic mixture [53].

States looking to ban titanium dioxide as a food additive

Insolube matter in water

Typically, this mineral is produced in two forms. The primary type is pigment-grade titanium dioxide, which utilizes its pigment to provide a look of sensitivity and brightness.

Separately, concerns have been raised about titanium dioxide impacting one's genetic code. This can be traced to a 2009 study which found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles caused DNA damage and genetic instability in mice. A 2022 study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology also raised concerns about the DNA-damaging effects of titanium dioxide as a food additive. The study noted that results evidenced a DNA-damaging effect, and added that there may also be impacts to chromosomal integrity, an indicator of cancer risk.

Analyst Insight

The rapid method of synthesis described here is readily scalable to the proportions required in cosmetics manufacture.

Given its widespread use, finding reliable suppliers of barium sulphate is crucial for industries that rely on this compound. Many companies specialize in the production and distribution of barium sulphate, ensuring that businesses can source high-quality materials tailored to their specific needs.

A few non-dietary studies have reported adverse effects in the gastrointestinal tract of laboratory animals given food-grade TiO₂. However, these same effects were not seen when the same or higher doses of food-grade TiO₂ were administered in the animals' diet. Dietary studies best reflect how humans are exposed to TiO₂ from food. Thus, the Food Directorate placed the most emphasis on the results of these studies in the state of the science report.

Lithopone, C.I. Pigment White 5, is a mixture of inorganic compounds, widely used as a white pigment powder. It is composed of a mixture of barium sulfate and zinc sulfide. These insoluble compounds blend well with organic compounds and confer opacity. It was made popular by the cheap production costs, greater coverage. Related white pigments include titanium dioxide, zinc oxide (zinc white), zinc sulfide, and white lead.