New research on titanium dioxide nanoparticles reveals more toxic effects than initially thought, posing an underestimated danger to consumers. The study found that these nanoparticles may disrupt hormonal responses to food, dysregulate blood sugar levels, and lead to diabetes, obesity, and other health problems.
Titanium dioxide is used in food products, such as candies and snack foods, to enhance colors or brighten whites. However, the EU has banned its use due to concerns over potential neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and damage to genes.
The latest research compared the gut health of mice fed with different types of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and found that those exposed to nanoparticles showed lower levels of gut hormones, higher glucose levels, and disrupted hormone secretion. This can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance.
Public health groups have petitioned the FDA to ban the use of titanium dioxide in food due to these risks. Despite the agency’s obligation to respond within 180 days, it has ignored the petition so far. If the issue is not addressed, the groups may sue.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/06/titanium-dioxide-food-additive-toxic