Does not work with hydrogen sulfide and alkaline solutions. It is easy to decompose in the presence of acid to produce hydrogen sulfide gas. It is easily oxidized in the air and deteriorates after moisture. Whiteness and hiding power are strong.

Titanium dioxide is used a food colour (E171) and, as with all food colours, its technological function is to make food more visually appealing, to give colour to food that would otherwise be colourless, or to restore the original appearance of food. Titanium dioxide is also present in cosmetics, paints, and medicines.