Titanium dioxide (E171)

In short: Titanium dioxide (E171, “CI 77891” in cosmetics) is a white pigment. In food it has been banned in the EU since August 2022, but it remains allowed in cosmetics and paints.

In more detail: In 2021 EFSA could no longer rule out that nanoparticles of the substance damage genetic material. The authorisation as an additive was therefore ended. A product containing E171 cannot be sold in the EU.

Our context: The product scanner classes E171 as “not approved in the EU” and deducts heavily.

In Depth

• Used for: whitening in sweets, chewing gum, dragées, sauces and supplements.
• Cosmetics: In sunscreen, titanium dioxide is a mineral UV filter. Inhaling powders and sprays is considered problematic.
• Outside the EU: It is still allowed in many countries. Imported products may contain it.
• Nano: Nanomaterial must be marked “[nano]” in the ingredient list of cosmetics.

See also: E numbers (food additives), Food colourings