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Variations of titanium dioxide are added to enhance the whiteness of paint, plastics, and paper products, though these variations differ from the food-grade ones for things we eat (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

Titanium dioxide exists primarily in three crystalline forms rutile, anatase, and brookite. Among these, anatase is characterized by its unique electronic properties and higher photocatalytic activity, making it suitable for applications requiring enhanced light absorption and reactivity. Its ability to act as a photocatalyst enables the breakdown of organic pollutants, making it a valuable component in environmental remediation strategies.

An inorganic chemical, titanium dioxide is used as a dye to help products achieve a certain appearance, including whitening a product. Some experts and publications have described it as being akin to a paint primer that's used before the color is added to food in order to give products a uniform shine. Its presence is common in many items beyond Skittles including coffee creamers, cake mixes, and chewing gum. It's also used for pigment and in cosmetics manufacturing.

The report provides insights into the landscape of the lithopone industry at the global level. The report also provides a segment-wise and region-wise breakup of the global lithopone industry. Additionally, it also provides the price analysis of feedstocks used in the manufacturing of lithopone, along with the industry profit margins.

But in the U.S., titanium dioxide is found all over the grocery shelves. Candy like Skittles, Starbursts, and Jell-O, gum like Trident White peppermint gum and Mentos Freshmint Gum, cake products like Duncan Hines Creamy Vanilla Frosting, and Nabisco Chips Ahoy! cookies are just a few of the myriad food items that contain the additive.

Why is titanium dioxide used in food, including in Skittles?