Titanium Dioxide in my soup…

Monkeys and rabbits loop the loop, Gosh oh gee but I have fun, Swallowing animals one by one.”

Although generally not found in soup, Titanium dioxide is currently considered a safe additive for many prepared and processed foods by many health agencies. According to Health Canada, Titanium Dioxide is permitted in or upon fruit jams/marmalades, milk products, fish roe (caviar), ice cream mixes, liqueur, relishes, and tomato catsup to name a few. The only requirement is that “Good manufacturing practices” be followed. According to the footnote provided, that means “the amount of the agent that is added to the food in manufacturing and processing does not exceed the amount required to accomplish the purpose for which it has been added.”

This all sounds rather normal and safe until you learn that when titanium dioxide is brought into a food manufacturing workplace, it likely (or should) have a Safety Data Sheet along with it. The SDS for Titanium Dioxide will further tell you that according to GHS classification, it is considered a health hazard. Research suggests that Titanium Dioxide is a possible carcinogen, with evidence from animals that shows high concentrations of pigment-grade (powdered) and ultrafine titanium dioxide dust can cause respiratory tract cancer in rats exposed by inhalation and intratracheal instillation.

Thankfully (silver lining maybe), it appears the possibility for causing cancer seems to disappear when Titanium dioxide is no longer in powder form (i.e., mixed into a liquid), but it does make me think twice about wanting to consume it. Health Canada is looking into banning the use of Titanium Dioxide in food. This move will follow in the footsteps of the European Food Safety Authority who recently announced that Titanium Dioxide can no longer be considered safe as a food additive.

As the saying goes, “when you know better, do better,” and I do hope that is the direction all health agencies are taking when it comes to potentially harmful ingredients in our food. I’m off to watch Annie now while I munch on Animal crackers. I may check the ingredient list first, though!

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