Following six months of phasing out the additive, titanium dioxide will be completely banned in the European Union starting August 7. France had previously banned the use of titanium dioxide in food starting in January 2020.

Recent analyses of food-grade TiO₂ samples have found that a significant portion of particles may be within the nanoscale. These particles (also known as nanoparticles) range in size from 1 to 100 nm, where 1 nm equals 1 billionth of a metre (the width of a typical human hair is 80,000 to 100,000 nm).

The second quarter of 2022 saw mixed market sentiments for titanium dioxide prices. Due to demands, constrained supply and ineffective production capacity brought on by the stretched supply chain, labour shortage, and high energy prices, the production of the chemical increased in Q2 of 2022. Moreover, the US Federal Reserve's tight monetary policy and high interest rates worsened the domestic trade picture, which at quarter's conclusion supported titanium dioxide's unfavourable market views.

In addition to its use in paints and coatings, TiO2 powder is also used in the production of plastics, inks, and ceramics. It is valued for its ability to impart whiteness and brightness to these materials, as well as its UV-blocking properties. TiO2 powder suppliers play a crucial role in providing these industries with the high-quality TiO2 powder they need to produce their products.

The California plaintiff is apparently not the only one concerned about titanium dioxide. The European Union recently banned its use citing concerns about serious health consequences.

Restraint

Studies of titanium dioxide as a food additive suggest health dangers

Characterization of vitamins@P25TiO₂NPs