E171: Titanium dioxide
White color; under scrutiny due to potential nanotoxicity. Verdict: debated
| Code | E171 |
| Name | Titanium dioxide |
| Also known as | titanium dioxide, titanium white |
| Group | E100–E199 — colours |
| Verdict | debated |
Where you meet it
- chewing gum
- glaze and sprinkles
- confectionery
- white sauces
Frequently asked questions
- Why was E171 banned in the EU?
- Since 2022, the European Union has banned it in food products: EFSA could not rule out genotoxicity of nanoparticles. In Russia, the additive is still permitted — the lists of approved substances do not coincide between regulators.
- Is E171 dangerous?
- On the classification this reference uses, E171 is "debated". White color; under scrutiny due to potential nanotoxicity. That is a summary of the Russian TR CU 029/2012 list and the EU permitted lists, not medical advice.
- How do I check whether E171 is in a product I have?
- Photograph the barcode or the ingredients panel — the app reads the list and flags every additive it finds. Three checks are free, with no account.
Check a product rather than guess. Photograph the barcode and the app reads the ingredients, decodes every code and marks the ones worth knowing about.
Others in this group: E102 · E120 · E122 · E124 · E129 · E131 · E100 · the full table
This reference is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor.