Turmeric And Titanium Dioxide

Turmeric is a spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, known for its vibrant yellow-orange color and earthy flavor. Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that is processed into a fine white powder.

Turmeric is used as a spice, coloring agent, and flavorant in many foods, including curries, mustards, and cheeses. Titanium dioxide is used as a white coloring agent to brighten or whiten foods like candies, chewing gum, and dairy products.

Turmeric is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. It is generally considered safe at typical dietary levels. Titanium dioxide is approved by the FDA as a color additive, with use limitations. JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. However, EFSA concluded in 2021 that it could no longer be considered safe as a food additive due to genotoxicity concerns, leading to its ban in the EU in 2022. The FDA maintains its safety under current use conditions and it is not part of the announced petroleum-based synthetic dye phase-out.