Europe recognizes food coloring E-171 as a dangerous food additive

The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) issued a press release stating that the agency no longer considers the commonly used artificial color Е-171 as a safe food additive.

E-171 is titanium dioxide, which can give food an attractive appearance while extending its shelf life. In addition, titanium dioxide is also used to make paints, pigments, ceramics, glass, rubber, paper, plastics, cosmetics, medicines, and sanitary products.

Lead expert Maged Younes said: "Considering all available scientific research and data, the expert team concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered a safe food additive. The key factor in reaching this conclusion is that we cannot eliminate Concerns about the genotoxicity (the ability to damage DNA) of titanium dioxide particles after entering the body. After ingesting titanium dioxide particles, although the absorption rate is very low, it will accumulate in the body."

The European Food Safety Authority also pointed out that it is no longer possible to set the allowable daily intake of E-171. Previously, France had banned the sale of foods containing titanium dioxide. The European Commission and member states intend to study the conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority, and then make decisions, provide recommendations to consumers, and formulate standards for the use of titanium dioxide.