Khaberni - The incident of seizing quantities of «Titanium Dioxide» in the adulteration of sugar cane juice in Egypt has revived the discussion about this material.
The seizure occurred during regulatory campaigns carried out by the competent authorities in cooperation with the Consumer Protection Agency, the Supply Directorates, and the National Food Safety Authority, after suspicion of its use to alter the appearance of cane juice and make it appear whiter than its natural color.
Titanium Dioxide is known by the code «E171», and it is a compound widely used due to its ability to provide white color and increase the brightness of products. It is used in industries such as paints, inks, paper, and some cosmetic products, and it was previously used in some food products.
Dr. Samah Nuh, head of the Veterinary Guidance Department, explained that the material is relied upon in various industries to obtain the white color, but it has become a subject of wide discussion due to concerns associated with its use in foods, especially when used to improve the appearance of the product and hide its real quality.
Some studies indicate that the fine particles of the material may raise questions about their effect inside the body, with research discussing the possibility of its association with processes such as oxidative stress and cellular changes, although evaluating its health effects is still under scientific study.
Because of these concerns, some regulatory bodies have taken precautionary measures, where the European Union stopped the use of Titanium Dioxide as a food additive starting from 2022, after not ruling out possibilities associated with its long-term effects.
Regarding sugar cane juice, experts explain that the natural color of the juice is usually light green or tending towards golden, whereas a very white color or chalky appearance may indicate the presence of an unnatural additive.
Also, the stability of the juice's color for a long period without change, or the appearance of unusual white deposits at the bottom of the cup, may be signs that warrant caution, especially if the product is of unknown origin.
After seizing the items in Qalyubia, they were confiscated and a record of the incident was made, in preparation to take legal action against the perpetrators, while the regulatory authorities continue their campaigns in the markets and food establishments to control any violations that threaten consumer safety.
Monitoring the sources of food and beverage purchases and relying on trusted places remains one of the most important measures that reduce the risks of commercial fraud, especially with the use of some materials that give the products an attractive appearance without reflecting their actual quality.
