Titanium dioxide: Which foods contain this harmful additive?

Titanium dioxide, a potentially harmful food coloring additive, is present in thousands of food products to enhance their whiteness and opacity. Due to potential DNA damage, CSPI strongly advises against consumption of any products containing titanium dioxide. Below, we've provided a guide to help you identify foods that are either free from or still contain this additive.

Understanding Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is an FDA-approved color additive used in various food products available in U.S. supermarkets. Despite its widespread use, titanium dioxide serves no nutritional or preservative function and is utilized solely for its aesthetic qualities—imparting a bright, white color to foods and beverages.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, titanium dioxide is used in approximately 13,000 branded food items. Often, it is not explicitly listed on ingredient labels but is instead disguised under terms like "artificial color," making identifying it challenging for consumers.

Why the Call to Ban Titanium Dioxide?

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has revealed that food-grade titanium dioxide can accumulate in the human body over time as nanoparticles, potentially causing genetic damage. This accumulation can lead to various health issues, including cancer, as well as immune and nervous system damage. As a result, CSPI's Chemical Cuisine tool currently warns consumers to avoid foods that contain this additive.

Despite these concerns, the FDA still permits the use of titanium dioxide in foods in the United States. In the absence of federal action, some states are proposing bans on titanium dioxide and other hazardous food additives. These proposals aim to prohibit specific additives without banning any particular food products, giving manufacturers time to reformulate.

Products Containing Titanium Dioxide and Safer Alternatives

Titanium dioxide is used to enhance the whiteness and brightness of foods, yet many products have successfully eliminated this additive. However, it is important to note that alternatives may still contain other harmful additives or may not necessarily be healthier. Below are examples of U.S.-sold products with and without titanium dioxide.

Macaroni and Cheese

While Wegmans’ Original Mac 'n Cheese claims to have no artificial colors, it does contain titanium dioxide. In contrast, Kraft Original Mac & Cheese Macaroni and Cheese Dinner is free from this additive, showing that it is possible to create macaroni and cheese without titanium dioxide.

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Soups

Campbell's Healthy Request Chunky Chicken Corn Chowder Soup uses titanium dioxide for color. However, Progresso Rich & Hearty Chicken Corn Chowder Flavored with Bacon does not, indicating that aesthetically pleasing chowders can be made without this chemical.

Cheeses

Various manufacturers employ titanium dioxide in shredded cheese for coloring. Still, alternatives exist, such as Great Value Shredded Fat Free Mild Cheddar Cheese, which is free from this additive, unlike Kraft Cheddar Fat Free Shredded Cheese.

Snack Mixes

Some snack mixes, including Tops Classic Trail Mix and Publix Trail Mix, Nut & Chocolate, use titanium dioxide for coloring. However, Giant Monster Trail Mix provides a titanium dioxide-free option.

Cookies

While Little Debbie Fudge Rounds use titanium dioxide, other soft cookies like Oreo Cakesters Soft Snack Cakes achieve appealing colors without this additive.

Protecting Yourself from Titanium Dioxide Risks

While policy changes are necessary to address titanium dioxide's dangers fully, you can safeguard your health in the meantime by following CSPI’s advice to avoid foods containing this additive. Carefully read food labels to determine if a product contains titanium dioxide. Additionally, support CSPI's efforts to enhance the regulation of food additives for a safer and more transparent food supply.

Sign our Petition to Remove Harmful Additives from U.S. Food

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