Titanium dioxide has also been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which has caused concern about its use in food products. This classification, however, is currently based on limited evidence from animal studies that involved the inhalation of titanium dioxide particles that increased the risk of lung cancer.

The ROS seemed to be endlessly produced by P25TiO₂NPs upon irradiation, since the values detected after 6 h are similar to the ones after 3 h. However, the amount of vitamin B2 in the surface of the NPs proved to be enough to decrease the ROS detected even after 6 h. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between C and A. p < 0.05

2. Cosmetics With its UV-filtering properties, anatase TiO2 is a popular ingredient in sunscreens and cosmetic formulations. Its ability to scatter UV radiation effectively protects the skin from harmful sun exposure, contributing to the increasing popularity of natural and mineral makeup products.

All food businesses currently using titanium dioxide as a food additive have a legal responsibility to comply with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2022/63, banning the use of titanium dioxide. The FSAI encourages food businesses to source suitable alternatives to titanium dioxide and start the process of reformulation now to ensure compliance in advance of the ban coming into force on 7 August 2022.