The most significant uncertainty identified by the EU experts was the concern that TiO₂ particles may have genotoxic effects. Genotoxicity refers to the ability of a chemical to directly damage genetic material within a cell (DNA), which may lead to cancer in certain situations. Although the experts did not conclude that TiO₂ particles in E171 are genotoxic, they could not rule out the concern that they might be.

When manufacturers add titanium dioxide to foods and other ingestible products, it’s typically referred to as E171, which relates to food-grade purity.

Animal studies have shown that, when consumed as a food additive, titanium dioxide can induce intestinal inflammation.

The color of barium sulphate, predominantly white, plays a crucial role in its identification and application across various industries. With the demand for high-quality barium sulphate soaring, choosing the right supplier becomes vital. Businesses must consider factors like purity, particle size, regulatory compliance, and customer service when sourcing barium sulphate to ensure they receive a product that meets their stringent requirements. As industries continue to evolve, reliable suppliers will remain indispensable in providing the necessary materials to support innovations and advancements.

Even if you’re not familiar with titanium dioxide in makeup, it’s quite likely you’ve seen it in sunscreens, specifically physical formulas. Titanium dioxide is beloved in cosmetics not only for the pigment and coloration it can provide but also for the way it reacts to light.

Titanium dioxide is used in the production of paper and textiles to improve whiteness, brightness, opacity and durability. It’s often used in fabrics, yarns, paper and other fibers.

On absorption of UV light, photo-generated titanium dioxide particles create singlet oxygen, superoxide anions (O2-) and hydroxyl radicals (OH-) that are potent free radicals (1,2). Irradiated particles of titanium dioxide can induce oxidative damage to DNA (2) which can lead to the development of mutant cells and skin cancers (3,4,5,6) and lipid peroxidation of essential functions on the cell membrane (7).

When used in food specifically, titanium dioxide is known as an additive called E171 and can be found in products like candy, chocolate, coffee creamer, cake decorations, chewing gum and even vitamin supplements. E171 is often used as coloring additive in foods, to lend the processed item a natural whiteness and opacity — such as in Skittles candy, where it's used as a white base to help give the candies their signature bright, colorful hue.

Overall, the precipitation of titanium dioxide is a complex process that requires careful control of various factors to achieve the desired product properties. By optimizing the precipitation percentage and carefully monitoring the precipitation process, manufacturers can produce high-quality titanium dioxide that meets the stringent requirements of their customers in the paints, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics industries.