Teeth- Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that appears as a fine, white powder. It is processed from titanium-containing ores found in the Earth's crust. It is primarily used for its bright white color and opaqueness.

In food, titanium dioxide is used as a white pigment to make foods brighter and more opaque. It is commonly found in candies, chewing gum, baked goods, and some dairy products.

Titanium dioxide is permitted by the FDA as a food additive. JECFA has evaluated titanium dioxide and set an acceptable daily intake. However, EFSA concluded in 2021 that it could no longer be considered safe as a food additive, leading to its ban in the EU in 2022. It is important to note that titanium dioxide is not part of the FDA's announced plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes.