So, what does it all mean for you, the consumer? Should you stop eating Skittles or begin checking foods for the presence of titanium dioxide? Here's a closer look.

In terms of titanium concentrate, the market in the Panxi region was quite stable in the first few weeks of the month. The overall state of the titanium ore market was satisfactory, and the price remained stable. The price of 38-grade titanium ore without tax was approximately 1,500-1,530 RMB/MT as of the 13th of January, while it was 2,220-2,260 RMB/MT for 46-grade titanium ore and 2,500-2,550 RMB/MT for 47-grade titanium ore.

Pigment grade titanium dioxide is produced at a much larger particle size than nano grade. It is used as a colourant to whiten and brighten product formulations. Nano grade titanium dioxide is manufactured into very fine (nano) particles and is transparent and colourless. It is commonly used in sunscreens to provide effective protection from potentially harmful UV rays.