Titanium dioxide under review due to safety concerns in Australia

After the EFSA deemed it hazardous, a food additive frequently used in goods such as sweets, chewing gum, and toothpaste will be examined by Australia's food safety agency as well. For decades, titanium dioxide has been an authorized food additive in Australia. However, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is currently requesting information on titanium dioxide and its safety as a food ingredient in Australia and New Zealand. The announcement comes after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) revised its guidance on the naturally occurring chemical in May, concluding that carcinogenic effects could not be ruled out.    

“EFSA’s expert panel on food additives and flavourings recently concluded that although the evidence for general toxic effects was not conclusive, titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe as a food additive. FSANZ, in consultation with our independent scientific advisory groups, is now reviewing the EFSA assessment as well as existing evidence on the safety of titanium dioxide as a food additive. This review will consider whether any actions may be required to protect the health and safety of Australian and New Zealand consumers.”, stated FSANZ.    

 

Source:  

https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/consumer/foodtech/Pages/Response-to-report-on-titanium-dioxide-.aspx