Titanium dioxide, a substance that has sparked controversy for years, is now under increased scrutiny due to a new petition. According to an analysis by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), this white colorant is present in over 1,800 food items, including products such as half and half, chicken, and chips, many of which are aimed at children. Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs at EWG, stated in a press release that chemicals capable of accumulating in the body and causing harm should not be included in foods and beverages marketed to young consumers. The petition highlights that the last safety review of titanium dioxide by the FDA occurred in 1973, when it was determined to be safe based on the belief that the colorant was not absorbed by the body. However, advances in research and technology have since demonstrated that nanoparticles of titanium dioxide can indeed be absorbed through the digestive system.
In 2018, the European Food Safety Authority updated its guidance on the potential risks of nanoparticles in food additives, which led to a re-evaluation of titanium dioxide and ultimately resulted in a ban. The authority stated that it remains uncertain whether this colorant can cause permanent harm to individuals who consume it, and it has been classified as a possible carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This petition marks the second recent effort to urge the FDA to revoke approval for a synthetic food dye that has already been banned in other countries for various applications.
Last October, multiple consumer advocacy groups also petitioned the FDA to rescind its approval of FD&C Red No. 3 for use in food, supplements, and drugs. Scientific studies have linked this red dye to cancer in animal models, prompting the FDA to ban its use in cosmetics and topically applied medications back in 1990. As of now, there have been 34,778 comments submitted regarding the Red No. 3 petition, which closed earlier this month, yet no action has been taken thus far.
As we navigate the 21st century, the calcium citrate review of food additives continues to gain importance, reflecting a growing demand for transparency and safety in the food supply. The ongoing scrutiny of titanium dioxide and other questionable substances highlights the need for regulatory bodies to reassess their standards in light of new scientific evidence.