Some consumer advocacy groups and health agencies — particularly, those at the Environmental Working Group — have been pushing federal officers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reconsider their existing rules on the additive, which is commonly found in processed snacks and sweets.

Although barium sulfate is almost completely inert, zinc sulfide degrades upon exposure to UV light, leading to darkening of the pigment. The severity of this UV reaction is dependent on a combination of two factors; how much zinc sulfide makes up the pigments formulation, and its total accumulated UV exposure. Depending on these factors the pigment itself can vary in shade over time, ranging from pure white all the way to grey or even black. To suppress this effect, a dopant may be used, such as a small amount of cobalt salts, which would be added to the formulation. This process creates cobalt-doped zinc sulfide. The cobalt salts help to stabilize zinc sulfide so it will not have as severe a reaction to UV exposure.

The assessment was conducted following a rigorous methodology and taking into consideration many thousands of studies that have become available since EFSA’s previous assessment in 2016, including new scientific evidence and data on nanoparticles. 

Key benefits for stakeholders

Absorption

Throughout the fourth quarter of 2021, the European market had consistent optimistic sentiment. Despite the overwhelming inventories at lower levels during the fourth quarter of 2021, the demand prognosis in the domestic market revealed varied opinions. Imports from the Asia Pacific region, on the other hand, remained disruptive due to limited accessibility of vessel freights and a decrease in the PMI index for titanium dioxide in China despite the application of severe environmental protection measures.

Following a request for assessment in 2020 by the EU, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) assessed E171, particularly for its genotoxicity. In 2022, the agency deemed the food additive no longer safe for use.  

1. Properties: white powder, a mixture of zinc sulfide and barium sulfate.

What is titanium dioxide made of?

Thanks to its rheological and optical properties, lithopone supplier 30% offers both technical and economic advantages in the substitution of titanium dioxide in different applications. Among these advantages, it has been observed that lithopone supplier 30% has algaecidal properties in paints, which gives greater protection to the coating.