Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Skittles and TIO2
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Mar 13, 2024 Discover the legal battles surrounding Skittles and the controversial ingredient titanium dioxide. Learn about the health concerns tied to its use and the potential risks of nanoparticles in candy. The discussion probes the regulatory landscape and questions why this additive is still used in popular foods. Plus, get a glimpse into classic and modern music, illustrated through analyses of impactful songs. It's a colorful blend of food science, consumer safety, and cultural significance!
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Skittles Lawsuit
- Mars announced in 2016 that they would phase out titanium dioxide from Skittles.
- Yet, in 2024, Skittles still contains this additive, leading to lawsuits.
Titanium Dioxide Uses
- Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring white powder used as a whitening agent in many processed foods, not just Skittles.
- It reflects light well, making it useful in products like sunscreen and makeup.
Nanoparticle Concerns
- The concern arises from the use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, which are tiny enough to potentially enter different body parts.
- While naturally occurring, these nanoparticles' small size raises concerns about accumulation and potential health risks.