Have you ever heard of titanium dioxide? This molecule (with the chemical formula TiO2) is an additive frequently used to whiten and shine: according to a survey published this Thursday, March 28, 2019 by the association Agir pour l’environnement, two thirds of the toothpastes sold in France contain it.
What’s the problem ? Titanium dioxide (which can be found in the list of ingredients behind the name E171) contains nanoparticles less than 100 nanometers in size, which facilitates their penetration into the body. According to a study carried out in 2017 by the National Institute of Agronomic Research (INRA), chronic exposure to this additive would promote the growth of precancerous lesions in rats and immune disorders.
In total, the association studied 408 toothpastes marketed in supermarkets, pharmacies, parapharmacies and organic stores – including 59 for children.
E171, a potentially dangerous additive for health
Results ? “Two thirds of toothpastes (271 toothpastes) contain titanium dioxide”. In children, 29 toothpastes are concerned. Furthermore, “none of the 271 toothpastes specifies on its packaging whether the titanium dioxide present is in the nanoparticle state”.
The list of toothpastes concerned can be consulted on the website of the association Agir pour l’environnement.
The association Agir pour l’environnement (which wishes to be received by the Minister of the Economy, Bruno Le Maire) is now asking for “the extension of the order suspending titanium dioxide [qui devrait être mis en place mi-avril 2019] to all products that can be totally or partially ingested: toothpastes and medicines (TiO2 is present in the excipients of 4000 medicines)”. To be continued…
Read also :
What are toothpastes without titanium dioxide?
Too much toothpaste on children’s toothbrushes
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Precarious French people deprive themselves of personal hygiene products
