Warning: E-number 171 (titanium dioxide) may be harmful to health
E-numbers are often said to be harmless to humans. They have been tested exhaustively and food laws in the Netherlands are strict; therefore, we should be able to assume that what we consume is safe. But sometimes an assessment still needs to be revised, as in the case of this specific E-number:
This concerns the additive E171, also known as titanium dioxide. New information has become available about the possible effects of this substance, and the European Food Safety Authority EFSA has taken another look at its safety. And it is certainly not such a rare substance; it is found in quite a few common products.
From chewing gum to liquorice, icing and toothpaste
E171 titanium dioxide is a white colouring agent. It can be used, for example, to make chewing gum or other foods such as liquorice, chocolate or sweet icing white, but it is also found in toothpaste and lip balm. These too are products of which you may regularly swallow a small amount. If a product’s ingredients list is in English, it will say titanium dioxide.
Harm cannot be ruled out
Following new, extensive research, EFSA now concludes that it is not certain that the use of E171 in food is safe. In light of the new information, it cannot be ruled out that E171 may damage DNA in cells. The body can repair this damage, but sometimes it cannot, and DNA damage may, over time, lead to cancer.
Several factors are important here, including the amount ingested, lifestyle and predisposition. So this does not mean that E171 will definitely cause cancer, but it cannot be ruled out either.
Read labels carefully
That is why the European Commission and the member states will now consider whether E171 may still be used in food in Europe and will reach a decision. Until then, you can check carefully for yourself whether it is in products you use or consume. On packaging, look for E171, titaandioxide, titanium dioxide or, in personal-care products, CI (Canadian Intense) 77891.
Also read:
- Did you know that liquorice is this dangerous?
- Brioche twists with red fruit & ricotta icing
- Why Fruit Mentos never tastes the same after playing the back-seat candy game
Source and image: RIVM
