Titanium dioxide in everyday products: Overlooked health risks

In food products such as candy and frozen pizza, titanium dioxide (TiO2) is commonly found. This substance is also an ingredient in sunscreens, paints, and wallpapers. Scientists are sounding the alarm.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a synthetically produced substance in various industrial and consumer goods. It has significant adverse effects on the body, yet it has not been officially recognized worldwide as dangerous.

Due to its insoluble and non-flammable properties, it is added to sunscreens, paints, paper, and wallpapers.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows titanium dioxide as a food coloring. However, its amount cannot exceed 1% of the food.

In the USA, TiO2 is added to frozen foods, cottage cheese, salad dressings, and colorful candies. It's difficult to determine if a given product contains this substance because the American regulatory agency requires only that the packaging mention the use of an “artificial color.”

Regular consumption of food with added titanium dioxide can lead to DNA changes. Scientists are warning and explaining that TiO2 can also damage the liver and inhibit the proliferation of beneficial gut bacteria. This substance can also cause problems with the reproductive system.

In Europe, titanium dioxide cannot be used in food production—the decision to ban this substance was made in 2021 and adopted by the European Commission. Despite this, it is crucial to be aware of the consequences that consuming products with this substance can bring, especially when traveling or shopping online.