An inorganic chemical, titanium dioxide is used as a dye to help products achieve a certain appearance, including whitening a product. Some experts and publications have described it as being akin to a paint primer that's used before the color is added to food in order to give products a uniform shine. Its presence is common in many items beyond Skittles including coffee creamers, cake mixes, and chewing gum. It's also used for pigment and in cosmetics manufacturing.

2C+O2→2CO2

Apart from the cosmetics industry, the coatings and plastics industry is also expected to contribute significantly to the growth of titanium dioxide in 2023. Coatings made from titanium dioxide offer excellent hiding power, durability and weather resistance, making them ideal for outdoor applications. Demand for high-quality coatings is expected to surge as the construction and automotive industries expand. Titanium dioxide is at the forefront of providing aesthetic and protective coatings, making it an indispensable ingredient in the industry.

Research has shown that, when ingested as a food additive, titanium dioxide and its nanoparticles can impact, alter, and/or damage important protective bacteria in the gut, along with the metabolic pathways of gut bacteria.