How does edible stuff such as candies, confectionery, and beverages get white shades? The most common white color used for these products and others is Titanium Dioxide (TiO2).
However, recently, this whitening agent has been termed unsafe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Leading food ingredients manufacturers, including ROHA, were quick to find Titanium Dioxide substitutes to match the performance of this color.
What is Titanium Dioxide?
TiO2 is a white metal oxide used as a food additive to provide a whitening effect. Its function is to make food that would otherwise be colorless, look visually appealing by giving it a white color. It is also used as a coating agent, for example, the white coating seen under the top colored layer in candies.
EFSA’s verdict
Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has deemed TiO2 to be unsafe as a food additive. According to the announcement, the use of Titanium Dioxide color as a food additive is banned across the EU. Hence, manufacturers of different products will be required to reformulate their products with a TiO2 replacement.
TiO2 replacement options
Starch-based alternatives
Starch-based Titanium Dioxide substitutes – rice- or corn-based – are used for applications in confectionery, etc. Start-based solutions provide opacity in some types of applications.
Calcium Carbonate-based alternatives
Calcium carbonate is a natural white mineral. It is used as an alternative to providing white color to food. Its particle size is larger compared to TiO2 and chemical structure, less effective at reflecting light. It is effective when used as a white coating for confectionery and for opacity in food items such as soups and sauces.
ROHA’s suite of Titanium Dioxide substitutes
To address the need for a natural and clean TiO2 alternative, ROHA introduced the NIVEOUS suite. It comprises starch- and calcium carbonate-based solutions. These colors are available under ROHA brands Natracol and Futurals.
This range of colors is 100% natural, clean label and completely preservative-free. The colors offer strong whitening and opacity effects and have the ability to stay stable under fluctuating heat and light. The colors do not require any manufacturing process changes.
Key features
- 100% natural, clean label
- Powdered solutions
- Offer strong whitening and opacifying effect
- Preservative-free
- Match TiO2 application performance
- Beverage and confectionery applications
Final word
With cutting-edge technology and R&D, ROHA has once again fulfilled the need for innovative and effective food color solutions for a Titanium Dioxide substitute. If you are a food manufacturer affected by EFSA’s verdict, looking for an effective and affordable TiO2 alternative that follows regulatory guidance, ROHA has the solution for you. To explore more, get in touch with us.
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