It’s produced through the sulfate or chloride process, which both involve treating titanium ore with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid to produce titanium sulfate or titanium chloride. These materials are then further processed to remove impurities and produce titanium dioxide in its final form.

Sulphate and chloride methods

While the FDA maintains that the regulated use of titanium dioxide is safe, the European Food Safety Authority and some other experts warn of potential, serious health risks.

Still many experts say the body of research does not support the current health concerns being expressed about titanium dioxide.

As of August 7, the use of titanium dioxide in food is banned in the European Union. Europe is taking a precautionary principle approach based on findings from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).