Health Canada's Food Directorate recently completed a “state of the science” report on titanium dioxide (TiO₂) as a food additive. Food-grade TiO₂ is a white powder made up of small particles that has been permitted in Canada and internationally for many years as a food additive to whiten or brighten foods. Food-grade TiO₂ has long been considered safe in Canada and in other countries when eaten as part of the diet.

In summary, the Food Directorate's position is that there is no conclusive scientific evidence that the food additive TiO₂ is a concern for human health. This is based on a review of the available scientific data relevant to food uses of TiO₂. However, we will continue to monitor the emerging science on the safety of TiO₂ as a food additive and may revisit our position if new scientific information becomes available.