E171
Titanium dioxide
Also known as: TiO2, CI Pigment White 6
Components / composition
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and larger particles used as a white pigment.
Common usage in food
Formerly used as white color in chewing gum, confectionery, and bakery decorations in the EU.
Effects on human health
EFSA could not rule out genotoxicity concerns for E171 particles; dietary exposure reassessed.
Risks & considerations
Uncertainty around nanoparticle accumulation and genotoxic potential led to EU ban as a food additive.
Regulatory approval (EU)
EU prohibition of titanium dioxide (E171) as a food additive applies from 2022 (Commission Regulation (EU) 2022/63).
US regulatory status (FDA)
The EU banned titanium dioxide (E 171) as a food additive from 2022, but the FDA still lists it as a permitted color additive under 21 CFR 73.575. U.S. rules allow TiO2 in foods generally up to 1% by weight; a 2023 petition to revoke this listing remains under FDA review. This is a major EU–U.S. regulatory divergence.
Permitted amounts / regulatory limits (EU)
Not permitted as a food additive in the EU. May still appear in non-food products.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Previous JECFA ADI withdrawn for food use context; no longer applicable in EU foods.