E171

E171 is the European Union food additive number for titanium dioxide. It is a white pigment used to give food products a bright white appearance. It can also be used to enhance opacity and color. Titanium dioxide is found naturally in minerals and is also produced synthetically. In food, it is commonly used in confectionery, baked goods, dairy products, and sauces.

The use of E171 has been a subject of scientific review and debate regarding its safety. Concerns have been raised about the potential for titanium dioxide nanoparticles to accumulate in the body and cause adverse health effects. However, regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have reviewed the available scientific evidence. In 2021, EFSA concluded that E171 could no longer be considered safe as a food additive. This conclusion was based on new data that indicated a potential genotoxic effect.

Following EFSA's re-evaluation, the European Commission decided to ban the use of E171 as a food additive in the EU. This ban came into effect in early 2022. Manufacturers have since been working to reformulate products that previously contained E171, using alternative white colorants. Consumers may notice changes in the appearance of some food products as a result of this regulatory change.