Titanium is a metal element found naturally in the environment. When it's exposed to oxygen in the air, it forms titanium oxides that are contained in many minerals, sands, soils, and dusts.

When used as a base or colorant in a product, titanium dioxide becomes handy in formulas meant to offer a lot of brightness and opacity. Titanium dioxide is so pigmented, in fact, that it’s used not only in white and pastel-colored products but also in darker shades, as well.

If you want to avoid titanium dioxide, read labels carefully and stick to minimally processed whole foods.

When E171 is part of a food product, it passes through the digestive system without causing harm because E171 combines with the other ingredients.