With its storied history and distinct properties, lithopone remains a subject of historical significance and contemporary relevance. While its applications and popularity have evolved, its role in the annals of pigment history is indisputable.

Nanoparticles

But in 2021, EFSA reevaluated titanium dioxide to consider the impacts of its nanoparticle. After considering more studies, EFSA concluded that nanoparticle-size titanium dioxide can accumulate in the body, break DNA strands and cause chromosomal damage.

While the conclusions of the EU expert panel were considered in this report, Health Canada's Food Directorate conducted its own comprehensive review of the available science. This included evaluating new scientific data that addressed some of the uncertainties identified by the EU expert panel and were not available at the time of their review.    

Moreover, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in manufacturing practices. Companies that prioritize environmentally-friendly processes and ethically sourced materials can enhance their brand image and meet the rising consumer demand for sustainable products. While cheap titanium dioxide manufacturers may offer lower prices, businesses should also evaluate their commitment to sustainable practices and social responsibility.

Fig. 2. SEM micrograph and EDS map of the same area of a vitaminB2@P25TiO₂NPs.

In the meantime, some big manufacturers boosted their product pricing to better their margins, such as Venator, which increased its titanium dioxide prices by roughly 160 USD /MT for the third quarter of 2021 in the North America region. Overall, prices for Anatase grade in the United States hovered about 3485 USD /MT through the end of June.

After conducting a review of all the relevant available scientific evidence, EFSA concluded that a concern for genotoxicity of TiO₂ particles cannot be ruled out. Based on this concern, EFSA’s experts no longer consider titanium dioxide safe when used as a food additive. This means that an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI ) cannot be established for E171.

In addition to hiding power, titanium dioxide also plays a vital role in enhancing the durability of paints. It acts as a barrier, protecting the walls from external elements such as UV radiation, moisture and pollutants. Titanium dioxide's high refractive index allows it to reflect harmful UV rays, preventing them from fading paint and retaining its vibrant colors for a long time. This UV resistance is especially important for facades that are exposed to sunlight throughout the day.

It's also worth noting that even prior to the EU decision, France had already outlawed titanium dioxide in food back in January 2020.