Washington, D.C.—The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) has submitted comments to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to a Citizen Petition from the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) asking FDA to revoke the use of the colorant titanium dioxide (TiO₂) in foods, including dietary supplements.

CHPA's stance: "There is a substantial body of scientific evidence that has been extensively reviewed by a diverse set of regulatory authorities that supports the safe use of TiO₂ as a food additive." A "hasty ban" on TiO₂ in dietary supplements would have far-reaching consequences, CHPA cautioned, noting that TiO₂ plays a "crucial role" in enhancing the stability and functionality of various dietary supplement finished products.

CHPA outlines several key points on TiO₂:

• Established safety and regulatory compliance already exists for TiO₂
• TiO₂ serves a critical functional role in dietary supplements
• There is a lack of viable alternatives to TiO₂
• There are economic implications if TiO₂ were no longer permitted for use
• Consumers accept and are aware of TiO₂ in products

Consumer safety is always a top concern for the dietary supplement industry, CHPA stressed. "Based on extensive scientific research and regulatory evaluations, TiO₂ is deemed safe for use as a food additive when consumed within established regulatory limits," the associated noted, adding that a ban on TiO₂ in food and dietary supplements would be unjustified.