white powder pigment lithopone

In a study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology in 2016, researchers investigated whether titanium dioxide exposure led to an increase in colorectal tumor creation in mice by using a colitis associated cancer model. By measuring tumor progression markers, the researchers found that mice given titanium dioxide experienced enhanced tumor formation in the distal colon.  There was also a decrease of cells that act as a protective barrier in the colon. The researchers wrote: “These results suggest that E171 could worsen pre-existent intestinal diseases.”

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In 2019, EFSA published a statement on the review of the risk related to the exposure to food additive titanium dioxide (E171) performed by the French Agency for Food, Environment and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES). In its statement, EFSA highlighted that the ANSES opinion reiterated the uncertainties and data gaps previously identified by EFSA and did not present findings that invalidated the Authority’s previous conclusions on the safety of titanium dioxide.

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Anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a key inorganic compound renowned for its exceptional photocatalytic properties, stability, and versatility in various applications. Among the various crystalline forms of titanium dioxide, anatase is particularly favored in industries ranging from paints and coatings to cosmetics and solar cells. The rise of anatase titanium dioxide manufacturers is a testament to the compound’s increasing importance in modern technology and environmental applications.


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