A1:

1. Lithopone is used as an inert pigment in paints, inks and cosmetics.

In a 2019 study published in the journal Nanotoxicology, researchers recreated the first phase of digestion in mice and fed them titanium dioxide, then examined whether accumulation occurred in the organs. Researchers wrote: “Significant accumulation of titanium was observed in the liver and intestine of E171-fed mice; in the latter a threefold increase in the number of TiO2 particles was also measured. Titanium accumulation in the liver was associated with necroinflammatory foci containing tissue monocytes/macrophages. Three days after the last dose, increased superoxide production and inflammation were observed in the stomach and intestine. Overall, [this] indicates that the risk for human health associated with dietary exposure to E171 needs to be carefully considered.”

Food safety experts in the European Union (EU) have recently updated their safety assessment of TiO₂ as a food additive. In Europe, TiO₂ is referred to as E171, in accordance with European labelling requirements for food additives. The EU expert panel took into account toxicity studies of TiO₂ nanoparticles, which to this point had not been considered relevant to the safety assessment of TiO₂ as a food additive.  

The annual production capacity of high-grade rutile titanium dioxide has reached more than 400,000 tons. It is one of the largest TiO2 manufacturers in China at present. It has more than ten product brands of Taiohua, Jinxing and other brands, and its products are sold in more than 50 countries and regions around the world. It has long maintained the excellent performance of the second overall ranking in the domestic titanium dioxide industry.

Lithopone 30% CAS No. 1345-05-7 / Nature and stability

Are there any alternatives to toothpastes with titanium dioxide?

Titanium dioxide, also called titania, is an odorless white powder and naturally occurring mineral that is widely used as a pigment for its brightness and whitening effects on a variety of materials, such as paint, plastic, paper, cosmetics, sunscreens, toothpastes and foods.

Titanium dioxide is an insoluble mineral, meaning it cannot dissolve in water. Known for its bright, white pigment, manufacturers use titanium dioxide in many different capacities, including in cosmetics, foods, and drugs. 

Even if you’re not familiar with titanium dioxide in makeup, it’s quite likely you’ve seen it in sunscreens, specifically physical formulas. Titanium dioxide is beloved in cosmetics not only for the pigment and coloration it can provide but also for the way it reacts to light.