In recent years, the conversation around Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) has led to research into its safety in the food industry by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), prompting innovation to ensure safety and performance.

FIRSTLY, WHAT IS TITANIUM DIOXIDE (TIO2)?

Titanium Dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined from the earth, processed and refined and has a wide range of applications such as paint, sunscreen, pharmaceutical and hygiene products.

White in colour, it is widely used as an additive (E171) to enhance the colour and sheen of certain foods and make it possible to achieve a uniform white colour or more brilliant and deep colours as well as pastel or opaque colours.

TIO2 IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY

Titanium Dioxide has been on the agenda for the EFSA for a few years now, assessing its impact on living cells. More recently, numerous researches have been conducted to increase understanding of TiO2 nanoparticles and reduce uncertainties about their subsequent impact on these cells.

May 2021 EFSA concluded that E171 was no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. EFSAstated that even though the absorption of titanium dioxide is low, it accumulates in the body. Therefore, EFSA could not exclude genotoxicity concerns after consumption of titanium dioxide particles and cannot establish a safe level for daily intake of titanium dioxide as a food additive.

TITANIUM DIOXIDE (E171) REMOVAL IN BAKING – OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE & MINIMISING COST

Safety First and Last is a core value at Bakels and this also goes for the safety of consumers. With this, Bakels have been following the discussion around this topic since EFSA began its assessment of the additive in 2016.

Removal of TiO2 is undoubtedly a challenge for the food industry. Appearance attributes, functionalities and cost may be compromised without the use of Titanium Dioxide. With the hard work of our team of technologists, driven by the safety of the nation, Bakels are proud to offer ingredient solutions which do not contain TiO2. Fillings, custards, sauces, crossing pastes and more have been under the spotlight at Bakels for some time and, as a result, are able to offer solutions which maintain a natural appearance and align with customer functionality expectations.

The development of the topic is continually monitored by the Bakels team and solutions across their portfolio are on the agenda to support customers in keeping consumers safe.

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