Highlights
- Oman prohibits the production, import, and marketing of food products containing titanium dioxide (E171) through Ministerial Decision No. 11/2023.
- Violation of the ban may result in a fine of OMR 1,000.
- Titanium dioxide is commonly used as a colorant in various food items, creating a white hue in baked goods, sandwich spreads, soups, sauces, and more.
- Recent studies have raised concerns about the potential adverse effects of titanium dioxide on human health.
- Oman’s move reflects the global trend of reevaluating the use of certain additives in food products.
- Food manufacturers, importers, and marketers in Oman must ensure compliance with the new regulation.
Oman has taken a significant step in safeguarding public health by banning the production, import, and marketing of food products containing titanium dioxide, also known as E171. The decision comes in response to growing concerns about potential health risks associated with the ingestion of titanium dioxide. According to Ministerial Decision No. 11/2023, violators of the ban may face a fine of OMR 1,000.
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Titanium dioxide, a naturally occurring oxide of titanium, is widely used in the food industry as a colorant, imparting a white hue to various products. From baked goods, sandwich spreads, soups, and broths to sauces, salad dressings, and even food supplements, its usage has been prevalent in food manufacturing processes for decades.
However, recent studies have raised doubts about the safety of titanium dioxide in human consumption. Although regulatory bodies worldwide generally recognize it as safe, some research suggests potential adverse effects on human health.
Oman’s decision reflects a global trend of reevaluating the use of certain additives in food products to ensure consumer safety. With the new regulation in effect, food manufacturers, importers, and marketers operating in Oman must comply with the ban, ensuring their products are free of titanium dioxide (E171).
Consumers are also advised to be vigilant and check food labels for the presence of E171 to make informed choices about the products they consume.
