The ban on titanium dioxide in all food products in the European Union (EU) entered into force on 7 August 2022 (European Commission FAQ on titanium dioxide). Similarly, titanium dioxide has also been banned as a food additive (E171) in Switzerland since autumn 2022 (see Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office: Titanium dioxide [not available in English]).
In contrast to the rule on food products, titanium dioxide is still permitted as an excipient in medicinal products in the EU. This is based on the analysis published at the start of August 2025 by the European Commission on the use of titanium dioxide in medicinal products. It concludes that the quantities used in medicinal products are low enough for the resulting risk to patients to be considered negligible. There are also currently no equivalent alternatives that would not impact the quality, safety or availability of medicinal products.
Swissmedic has noted the European Commission’s analysis and considers a coordinated international approach to be appropriate. The use of titanium dioxide in medicinal products therefore also continues to be permitted in Switzerland.