Food Additive Titanium Dioxide: JECFA Finds Insufficient Evidence of Genotoxicity
A joint FAO/WHO expert committee has released a risk assessment for titanium dioxide, concluding that available evidence does not convincingly demonstrate genotoxicity. Limitations in testing methodologies for nanoparticles were noted.
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) released its risk assessment for the food colour additive titanium dioxide (TiO2) on November 24, 2023. The committee found that current scientific literature has limitations regarding genotoxicity testing.
JECFA noted that OECD guidelines for genotoxicity testing were developed for chemicals and may not be directly applicable without adaptation to poorly soluble particulate matter like TiO2. Despite some equivocal findings in available data, the committee stated there was no convincing evidence of genotoxicity for TiO2 (INS171).
"JECFA reviewed all available research on genotoxicity risk and determined that the evidence is insufficient, owing mostly to the lack of suitable testing methodologies for nanoparticles," said Dr. Moez Sanaa, WHO’s Head of the Standards and Scientific Advice on Food and Nutrition Unit. "We need more research to address the current uncertainty about the distribution of TiO2 particle sizes in food and to develop genotoxicity tests that are more appropriate for nanoparticles."
The assessment provides current scientific understanding to inform regulatory bodies and the food industry. The findings highlight the need for further research into nanoparticle testing to ensure food safety standards.