That bright white candy coating or glossy glaze on your favorite snack might be doing more harm than you think. A new peer-reviewed study has found that titanium dioxide — a common food additive found in up to 11,000 U.S. products — may disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar levels, potentially increasing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Jiaxing Nanhu University in China discovered that when titanium dioxide is consumed in nanoparticle form, it may interfere with gut hormones that help signal fullness and manage glucose levels. In lab tests on mice, those fed the additive had fewer enteroendocrine cells — key players in regulating digestion and metabolism — and showed significantly elevated blood sugar levels.
Titanium dioxide is used to brighten food products, such as candy, baked goods, and even non-stick cookware. Popular snacks, such as M&M’s, Skittles, and Chips Ahoy!, have all come under scrutiny for containing the additive. While the European Union banned its use in food back in 2022 due to concerns over toxicity, gene damage, and long-term accumulation in organs, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration still considers it safe.
However, pressure is mounting. Consumer advocacy groups, including Unleaded Kids, have filed a petition demanding a U.S. ban. “When you start messing with glucose levels, that’s diabetes,” said Tom Neltner, the group’s director. He warns that if the FDA continues to ignore their petition, legal action may follow.
The new study strengthens the case that some seemingly harmless food additives could be quietly undermining public health. Until regulatory action is taken, experts recommend limiting ultra-processed foods, especially brightly colored snacks, and reading ingredient labels carefully.
