Big bag sewing machine

Another important property of Chinese anatase titanium dioxide is its photocatalytic activity, which enables it to break down organic pollutants and harmful chemicals when exposed to light. This makes it an attractive choice for applications in environmental remediation, such as air and water purification systems. Additionally, its photocatalytic properties have also been studied for use in self-cleaning surfaces, such as windows and building facades, where it can help to reduce maintenance costs and keep surfaces looking clean.

EINECS accession number: 215-715-5

On the other hand, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in their Final Administrative Order on Sunscreen Drug Products posted in September 2021 still accepts titanium dioxide up to 25% in the list of Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective (GRASE) in the main document, without further clarification on what kind or size of particles [9]. However, on page 24 (Sunscreen containing nanomaterials) FDA clearly “distinguish nanomaterials from other forms of these ingredients'' (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and ask for comments on “any particular nanomaterials that you believe should not be permitted for use in OTC sunscreen products”. To the best of our knowledge, this Agency did not ban the use of nanoparticulate titanium dioxide in any form, even though it is mentioned on page 34 that the anatase form is the more photoactive one, due to the lack of evidence with real sunscreens OTC (over the counter) in vivo. Moreover, other regulations in Latin America (MERCOSUR agreement, 2006) do not state clearly their position on the use of nanoparticulate TiO₂NPs [10].

About Titanium Dioxide. Titanium Dioxide, a white crystalline powder, represents the natural oxide of titanium, with its primary occurrence observed specifically in rutile ores. This titanium compound holds remarkable significance in various technological realms, functioning as a commodity chemical extensively harnessed across diverse industries. In actuality, a substantial majority of titanium ores undergo processing procedures to yield Titanium Dioxide, consequently establishing its unrivaled status as the most extensively utilized titanium-based substance on a global scale.

The paints and coatings industry reduced their offtakes which coupled with the drop in the crude oil prices and availability of cheaper imports from the Asian market led to the fall in titanium dioxide prices. The demand decreased significantly in the fourth quarter along with the slow manufacturing due to high inflation rates keeping the price trends of the commodity in the negative zone.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles are commonly found in a wide-range of consumer goods, including cosmetics, sunscreens, paints and colorings, ceramics, glass, textiles, construction materials, medicine, food, food packaging, and more. In Europe, cosmetic companies are required to label products that contain nanoparticles. In the U.S., companies are not.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles have also been found in human placentae and in infant meconium, indicating its ability to be transferred from mother to fetus. 

Variations of titanium dioxide are added to enhance the whiteness of paint, plastics, and paper products, though these variations differ from the food-grade ones for things we eat (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

Studies suggest that people are more likely to buy and eat foods that are brighter or more vibrant in color. And titanium dioxide is one way to make that happen. You can find it in food products like candy, coffee creamer, baking and cake decorations, and white sauces.

What is titanium dioxide? Why is it used in food products?

Titanium dioxide is produced at pigment grade or nano grade.