Declaration of Competing Interest

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

Additional Health Concerns Linked to Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is commonly applied to enhance the white colour and brightness of food products. TiO₂ is also used as white pigment in other products such as toothpaste. A small fraction of the pigment is known to be present as nanoparticles (NPs). Recent studies with TiO₂ NPs indicate that these particles can have toxic effects. In this paper, we aimed to estimate the oral intake of TiO₂ and its NPs from food, food supplements and toothpaste in the Dutch population aged 2 to over 70 years by combining data on food consumption and supplement intake with concentrations of Ti and TiO₂ NPs in food products and supplements. For children aged 2-6 years, additional intake via ingestion of toothpaste was estimated. The mean long-term intake to TiO₂ ranges from 0.06 mg/kg bw/day in elderly (70+), 0.17 mg/kg bw/day for 7-69-year-old people, to 0.67 mg/kg bw/day in children (2-6 year old). The estimated mean intake of TiO₂ NPs ranges from 0.19 μg/kg bw/day in elderly, 0.55 μg/kg bw/day for 7-69-year-old people, to 2.16 μg/kg bw/day in young children. Ninety-fifth percentile (P95) values are 0.74, 1.61 and 4.16 μg/kg bw/day, respectively. The products contributing most to the TiO₂ intake are toothpaste (in young children only), candy, coffee creamer, fine bakery wares and sauces. In a separate publication, the results are used to evaluate whether the presence of TiO₂ NPs in these products can pose a human health risk.

With 30% of the world's lithopone factories located in China, the country has become a major player in the global lithopone market. Chinese manufacturers are able to produce lithopone at a competitive price, making it an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their production costs. In addition, China's large production capacity ensures a steady and reliable supply of lithopone to markets around the world.

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 ‘