Food Additive DB

Cross-Country Regulation Comparison

Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

Regulatory History: Titanium Dioxide

E171 — Complete timeline of regulatory events

About This Timeline

This page documents the regulatory history of Titanium Dioxide (E171), including approvals, bans, safety evaluations, and classification changes by regulatory agencies worldwide.

Data source: Official regulatory documents, scientific publications, and agency announcements. All events are documented with source agencies and dates.

Complete Timeline

8 events
1966 approved
FDA • USA

FDA approved titanium dioxide for use in food, not to exceed 1% of food weight.

1969 approved
European Commission • EU

Food-grade titanium dioxide authorized in the EU under E171 designation.

Mar 2016 re-evaluated
EFSA • EU

EFSA re-evaluated E171, identified data gaps on particle size distribution and possible effects on reproductive system. Recommended new studies.

Jan 2019 banned
ANSES / French Government • France

France suspended use of E171 in food products, ahead of EU-wide action, citing precautionary principle.

May 2021 safety concern
EFSA • EU

EFSA concluded E171 can no longer be considered safe as a food additive. Genotoxicity concerns could not be ruled out after reviewing evidence on nanoparticles.

Feb 2022 regulation published
European Commission • EU

Commission Regulation (EU) 2022/63 published, removing E171 from permitted additives list (Annexes II and III). Six-month transition period announced.

Aug 2022 banned
European Commission • EU

Full ban on E171 as food additive in EU entered into force.

Aug 2025 classification change
EU Court of Justice • EU

EU Court of Justice ruling confirmed that titanium dioxide powder forms are no longer classified as suspected carcinogen by inhalation, but food ban remains.

Important Notes

  • This timeline is for informational purposes only and does not constitute safety advice.
  • Regulatory decisions reflect the state of scientific knowledge at the time they were made.
  • Current regulations may differ from historical events shown. Always consult official sources for up-to-date information.
  • An approval in one country does not imply approval in others. Regulatory standards vary by jurisdiction.