Big bag sewing machine

In a study published in 2022 in the journal Particle and Fibre Technology, researchers examined the impact of maternal exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles in newborn offspring mice. They found that “a chronic exposure to TiO2 NPs during pregnancy alters the respiratory activity of offspring, characterized by an abnormally elevated rate of breathing.” Breathing was also shown to be “significantly and abnormally accelerated,” and the ability for neural circuitry to effectively adjust breathing rates was impaired. The researchers concluded: “Our findings thus demonstrate that a maternal exposure to TiO2 NPs during pregnancy affects the normal development and operation of the respiratory centers in progeny.”

In summary, the Food Directorate's position is that there is no conclusive scientific evidence that the food additive TiO₂ is a concern for human health. This is based on a review of the available scientific data relevant to food uses of TiO₂. However, we will continue to monitor the emerging science on the safety of TiO₂ as a food additive and may revisit our position if new scientific information becomes available.

0.5% Max

In the paper industry, TiO2 is used to create high-quality, bright white paper products. By adding TiO2 to pulp, paper manufacturers can improve the opacity, brightness, and printability of their products. TiO2 also enhances the lightfastness and aging resistance of paper, ensuring that it maintains its appearance and quality over time. With TiO2, paper products can achieve a superior level of whiteness and visual appeal.

What's the Verdict?

In short, no, research demonstrates that E171 is safe when consumed in normal situations.

Moreover, how we're exposed to an ingredient matters significantly in terms of our health and potential toxicity.   

Research shows that inhaling titanium dioxide particles in significant quantities over time can cause adverse health outcomes. Unless you work in an industrial setting, inhaling substantial amounts of titanium dioxide is highly unlikely. 

Research supports that applying titanium dioxide to the skin in the form of sunscreens, makeup, and other topical products does not pose a health risk. 

Overwhelmingly, research that's relevant to human exposure shows us that E171 is safe when ingested normally through foods and drugs (1,2).

Again, other research suggests that E171 could cause harm; however, those research processes did not design their studies to model how people are exposed to E171. Research that adds E171 to drinking water, utilizes direct injections, or gives research animals E171 through a feeding apparatus is not replicating typical human exposure, which occurs through food and medicine consumption.

Read more in-depth about the titanium dioxide risk at go.msu.edu/8Dp5. 

The ingredient in question? Titanium dioxide.

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

Hebei Caiqing Material Technology Co., Ltd. was established in 2005 and has been at the forefront of chemical product research and development. Focusing on the field of titanium dioxide, the company has played a vital role in meeting global demand, providing personalized customization services to global customers. With the continuous expansion of the titanium dioxide market, Hebei Caiqing Material Technology Co., Ltd. is ready to meet the industry's growing demand in terms of production and service.

The raw material used in this method is FeSO4. In order to maintain the Fe3 + concentration in the reaction medium in a specific range, reducing agent iron sheet is added in the reaction process. Iron yellow crystal seed was added and air was introduced to synthesize iron yellow under certain pH conditions. The method mainly includes two steps: (1) firstly, FeSO4 · 7H2O is used as raw material, NaOH or NH3 · H2O is used as precipitant or pH regulator, and air is used as oxidant to prepare crystal seed; (2) Iron yellow is produced by two-step oxidation with crystal seed, FeSO4, iron sheet and air.

While IARC listed titanium dioxide as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” they also add that “there is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of titanium dioxide.” Of the four human studies that they reviewed, only one showed a potential risk for occupational workers inhaling titanium dioxide particles and lung cancer, while the other three showed no risk for cancer at all. And it’s key to note that IARC did not assess the effects of titanium dioxide found in foods.

Main products are titanium dioxide LR-982, titanium dioxide LR-108, titanium dioxide LR-996, LR-895 and other products.

The presence of so many lithopone factories in China has also led to advancements in production technology and quality control. Chinese manufacturers have invested heavily in research and development to improve the performance of their lithopone products, leading to higher quality and more consistent products on the market. This has helped to cement China's reputation as a leading producer of lithopone on the global stage.