Titanium Dioxide

Also known as: TiO2, CI 77891

Color additive · E171

US-EU Regulatory Divergence

This additive has different regulatory status in the US and EU — what's permitted in one region may be restricted or banned in the other.

Regulatory Status

United States (FDA)

Approved

FDA-approved as color additive in food with no quantity limit. Used as whitener.

European Union (EFSA)

Banned

Banned in EU as of August 2022. EFSA concluded it can no longer be considered safe due to genotoxicity concerns.

Safety Profile

CRITICAL DIVERGENCE: FDA says safe, EU banned it in 2022. EFSA determined potential genotoxicity from nanoparticle form. One of the most significant US-EU regulatory gaps in food safety.

Health Concerns

  • • Genotoxicity concerns (DNA damage from nanoparticles)
  • • EFSA found it cannot be ruled out as causing DNA damage
  • • Potential inflammation of intestinal cells

Commonly Found In

Candy coatingsChewing gumCoffee creamerFrostingWhite sauces

Sources: FDA Substances Added to Food, EFSA opinions, EU Regulation 1333/2008, IARC monographs

SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.