Food safety experts in the European Union (EU) have recently updated their safety assessment of TiO₂ as a food additive. In Europe, TiO₂ is referred to as E171, in accordance with European labelling requirements for food additives. The EU expert panel took into account toxicity studies of TiO₂ nanoparticles, which to this point had not been considered relevant to the safety assessment of TiO₂ as a food additive.  

Below 10% substitution, 1 kg of TiO2 should be replaced by 1 kg of Lithopone 30%.  

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.

Studies have been carried out with both emulsion paints and powder paints, both with clear results on how the use of Lithopone 30% reduces the appearance of algae in the paint once it has been applied (see photos). 

Less frequently, we ingest E171 through liquids such as salad dressing, dairy products, and some artificially colored drinks. However, since E171 is insoluble, manufacturers must use other stabilizers to keep E171 suspended in liquids as an emulsion; otherwise, it will settle to the bottom. 

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One of the main uses of TiO2 powder is as a pigment in paints and coatings. It is valued for its excellent opacity, brightness, and UV resistance, making it ideal for use in exterior paints, industrial coatings, and automotive finishes. TiO2 powder suppliers work closely with paint manufacturers to supply them with the right grade and quantity of TiO2 powder to meet their specific requirements.

Overall, the Food Directorate's comprehensive review of the available science of TiO₂ as a food additive showed:

Lithopone powder, chemically known as zinc sulfide/zinc oxide, is a white pigment produced through a precipitation process involving zinc sulfate and barium sulfate. It is characterized by its high refractive index, excellent hiding power, and resistance to UV radiation, making it an ideal choice for various applications.

Ultimately, most experts advise moderation, as titanium dioxide is typically found in processed foods that come with their own health risks.

Suppliers of lithopone have recognized the growing need for high-quality, reliable products that meet both industry standards and consumer preferences. They have invested in advanced production techniques and stringent quality control measures to ensure that their lithopone products deliver consistent performance. This commitment to quality allows paint formulators to achieve the desired properties in their final products, such as enhanced durability, improved hiding power, and superior color stability over time.

2. Particle Size The application often dictates the required particle size. Suppliers typically offer various grades of barium sulphate, categorized by their particle size distribution. For example, finer particle sizes are often favored in cosmetic applications, while coarser grades may be used in construction materials.

When E171 isn’t combined with other ingredients and administered in water, some studies suggest that under these artificial conditions, E171 may be processed differently in the body resulting in some biological changes in experimental animals that are poorly understood.

In a statement sent to USA TODAY on Sunday, Justin Comes, vice president of research and development for Skittles maker Mars Wrigley North America, said the company couldn't comment on pending litigation – but that its use of titanium dioxide and all Mars Wrigley ingredients are safe and manufactured in compliance with strict quality and safety requirements established by food safety regulators, including the FDA.