Skittles has been making headlines in recent weeks and not because a new flavor has been added to the popular taste the rainbow candy.
Nano, or ultrafine, TiO2 comprises primary particles sized less than 100nm. In this grade, titanium dioxide is transparent (colourless) and boasts improved UV scattering and absorbing properties compared with larger particle-size pigmentary TiO2.
CSPI says it might reconsider its rating if specifications for food-grade titanium dioxide in the U.S. are updated to ensure nanoparticles are minimized, and new studies are conducted to assess its capacity to cause cancer or other health problems.
Even though it is one of the most-produced chemicals, the real and potential benefits of titanium dioxide are not without controversies. Dust inhalation may cause breathing problems. Titanium dioxide has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as an Group 2B carcinogen, a “possible carcinogen to humans,” based on studies of rats that inhaled the substance.
