Presence of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Milk and Infant Formula Despite Food Bans

Recent research has raised concerns over the continued presence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂) in milk and infant formula, despite bans implemented in France in 2020 and across the European Union in 2022. Titanium dioxide, known for its opacity and use as a food additive (E171), has been classified since 2006 as possibly carcinogenic when inhaled. While its use in food products has been restricted due to potential health risks, it remains widely used in various everyday items such as toothpaste, sunscreens, cosmetics, medications, and packaging materials.

Environmental studies have previously detected TiO₂ particles in surface waters, groundwater, soil, and air, often originating from industrial activities, paint erosion, or fertilizers containing nanoparticles. To assess human and animal exposure, scientists from INRAE, AP-HP, the SOLEIL Synchrotron, and CNRS analyzed milk samples from both humans and animals, as well as commercial infant formulas. Milk was chosen as a biomarker for maternal exposure, given its essential role in infant nutrition.

Using advanced spectrometry techniques, researchers found titanium dioxide nanoparticles in all tested animal milk samples—both organic and conventional from cows, donkeys, and goats—as well as in 83% of infant formulas across different brands and age groups. Detection methods revealed nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm, which are known to have different physicochemical properties compared to larger particles.

Remarkably, TiO₂ particles were also found in human breast milk. Analyzing samples from ten volunteers in or near Paris, the study observed varying concentrations, with some samples showing up to 15 times more TiO₂ than others, demonstrating that these particles can cross the mammary gland barrier. Estimates showed the presence of millions to billions of TiO₂ particles per liter in both infant formulas and human milk.

These findings indicate that despite regulatory bans, titanium dioxide contamination persists in milk, possibly originating from environmental exposure, industrial sources, or other environmental contamination pathways. Furthermore, prior research from INRAE confirmed that titanium dioxide nanoparticles can cross the placental barrier during pregnancy, suggesting cumulative exposure for developing infants.

Future investigations aim to further characterize the size, crystalline form, and composition of these particles to better understand their toxicity and health implications. Ongoing studies in urban areas like Paris will explore how diet, cosmetics, medications, and other consumer products influence exposure levels to these nanoparticles.

The study underscores the need for continued monitoring of nanomaterials in food and the environment and raises questions about current safety standards and regulations regarding titanium dioxide use and contamination.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-titanium-dioxide-nanoparticles-infant-formula.html