French Association Agir pour l’Environnement launched a website that irresponsibly mischaracterises the use of titanium dioxide (E171) in hundreds of food products. Titanium dioxide is a naturally-occurring substance that has been commonly used in foodstuff for decades to brighten colours and enhance their surface texture and shine. Nanoparticles of titanium dioxide cannot do that, because they are transparent. This is why food manufacturers use titanium dioxide in sizes that are above the nanoparticle size.
Agir pour l’Environnement stands that nanoparticles in food have not yet been properly assessed and therefore should be taken out of the market. In fact, not only is E171 not used as a nanoparticle in food, but it is also one of the most well-tested and important substance in commerce. EFSA published last year a comprehensive review of titanium dioxide in food and found it presented no concern for the safety of consumers.