E171: Titanium dioxide and the hidden dangers

Table of contents

1. Introduction: Titanium dioxide
2. Where is titanium dioxide (E171) everywhere?
3. How harmful is titanium dioxide (E171)?
4. What are the side effects of titanium dioxide (E171)?
5. Conclusion

1. introduction: Titanium dioxide (E171)

Titanium dioxide, also known as E171, is omnipresent in your everyday life. From confectionery to sun creams and medicines - this ingredient has a wide range of applications. But what is behind this additive? Why is it used so frequently and what risks are associated with it? In this article, we take a deep dive into the world of titanium dioxide and tell you everything you really need to know.

2. where is titanium dioxide (E171) everywhere?

• FoodTitanium dioxide, known as E171, is a widely used food additive, which is mainly used as a whitening agent in food. Confectionerychewing gum and baked goods. It gives these products an appealing, flawless appearance. It is also contained in mozzarella, yoghurt, baked goods, glazes, ice cream, dragées, soups, sauces and broths, Saladssavoury spreads and food supplements.
• CosmeticsIn cosmetics, titanium dioxide is often used in sun creams, foundations and powders due to its excellent coverage and ability to block UV rays.
• MedicationIn the pharmaceutical industry, TiO₂ (E171) as a colouring agent in tablets and capsules to identify and distinguish them.

3. how dangerous is titanium dioxide (E171)?

The food additive titanium dioxide has been intensively tested for its safety. In 2021, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) came to the conclusion that titanium dioxide can no longer be classified as safe, as genotoxic effects that can lead to DNA damage cannot be ruled out. As a result, the European Union has banned the use of titanium dioxide in food.

In the field of cosmetics, the use of titanium dioxide, particularly in the form of nanoparticles, is the subject of controversial debate. Studies have shown that titanium dioxide nanoparticles can cause oxidative damage in skin cells, which could potentially be harmful to health. It is recommended to use cosmetic products that do not contain nanoparticles or that comply with international safety standards.

Despite concerns about the safety of titanium dioxide in food, its use in medicines is still permitted for the time being. This is because an immediate replacement of this colouring agent in medicines could lead to supply bottlenecks. However, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) emphasises that safe alternatives should be sought in the long term.

4 What are the side effects of titanium dioxide (E171)?

• Respiratory diseasesIndustrial workers who inhale titanium dioxide dust may experience respiratory irritation and chronic lung problems. Long-term exposure is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, which led to the classification of titanium dioxide as possibly carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
• Cancer riskThe genotoxic effects that can be caused by the intake of E171 could lead to an increased risk of cancer. This was one of the main reasons for the re-evaluation and subsequent ban by EFSA.
• Inflammation and cell damageTitanium dioxide nanoparticles can cause oxidative damage and inflammation in cells, which can lead to various health problems including DNA damage and impairment of the immune system.
• Digestive problemsSome studies in animals have shown that ingestion of E171 can cause inflammation in the gut, which could potentially promote inflammatory bowel disease.
• Skin irritationIn cosmetic products, titanium dioxide may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially in the form of nanoparticles that may penetrate the skin barrier.

5. conclusion

Titanium dioxide is a widely used ingredient whose safety is increasingly being questioned. It is important to be aware of the latest scientific findings and regulatory developments in order to make informed decisions about the use of products containing E171. Therefore, you should pay particular attention to the composition of food, cosmetics and medicines to minimise potential health risks.

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Sources:

EFSA (2021). Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. [online]: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/titanium-dioxide-e171-no-longer-considered-safe-when-used-food-additive [ 31 July 2024].

EFSA (2016). Re-evaluation of titanium dioxide (E 171) as a food additive. [online]: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/4545 [ 31 July 2024].

European Commission (2021). HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY - Goodbye E171: The EU bans titanium dioxide as a food additive. [online]: https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/sante/items/732079/en [ 31 July 2024].

Photo titanium dioxide E171 powder: Adobe Stock, Anastasiia, #859315297

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