Sunscreen With Titanium Dioxide And Zinc Oxide-Why Do They Put Titanium Dioxide In Candy
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is used in candy primarily as a food additive with the purpose of acting as a whitening agent or colorant. It is known for its very high refractive index, which makes it an excellent opacifier, capable of providing a bright white color and a smooth, opaque appearance in products where a clear or translucent look is not desired.
Here are some reasons why titanium dioxide might be added to candy:
1. **Color enhancement**: Titanium dioxide can make the colors of candy more vibrant by providing a white background that makes other colors stand out more.
2. **遮盖效果**: It can help mask the natural color of the ingredients in the candy, which might not be as visually appealing as a bright white.
3. **Consistency**: It ensures a consistent color and look across different batches of candy, which is important for brand identity and consumer expectations.
4. **Safety**: Titanium dioxide is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used in accordance with regulations. It does not readily migrate into food, meaning it doesn’t dissolve or mix with the food product, and it is not absorbed by the body.
However, it’s worth noting that there has been some debate and research into the safety of titanium dioxide, especially regarding its use in its nano form. Some studies suggest that nano-sized particles could potentially have different biological effects compared to larger particles, but the use of titanium dioxide in food remains a common practice in many countries.
In response to health concerns and consumer demand, some manufacturers have been looking for alternatives to titanium dioxide in their products.