Lithopone was developed in the 1870s as a substitute for lead carbonate (lead white), to overcome its drawbacks of toxicity and poor weathering resistance. Within a few years, titanium dioxide displaced lithopone to become the white pigment (PW6) par excellence in the industry and the world’s best-selling inorganic pigment. However, titanium is a product whose price is subject to large price variations due to product availability. These price increases affect the competitiveness of finished products, and so the search for an alternative to titanium dioxide has generated a variety of possibilities to optimise its use. 

Food quality

Coronavirus-related shutdowns in the first half of the quarter prompted forcible measures at several small-scale ilmenite factories in China and India, subsequently exacerbating the Titanium supply problem. The chemical's tight supply condition was extended until the end of the quarter, as few participants were heard holding cargoes in expectation of an exceptional surge in its seasonal demand.

In Home Care products, the presence of titanium dioxide is declared in line with local regulations, which can vary across the world. In some countries, titanium dioxide is not declared if only a small amount of the ingredient is used. In other countries titanium dioxide is grouped under ‘colourants’ in the ingredients list. In Europe, regulation requires all home care ingredients to be disclosed through a supporting website. You can find our product ingredient information page by visiting ‘