Inorganic natural pigments titanium dioxide

The uncertified color additives (Institute of Food Technologists 1986) include a number of natural extracts as well as inorganic substances such as titanium dioxide. Some of these can be used only with certain restrictions (Table 6-7). The consumer demand for more natural colorants has provided an impetus for examining many natural coloring substances. These have been described in detail by Francis (1987). The possibility of using plant tissue culture for the production of natural pigments has also been considered (Ilker 1987). 

For coloured products, it is necessary to use a colouring agent (pigment) in conjunction with a white base. This is normally achieved by addition of titanium dioxide (or alternatively lithopone or zinc oxide) plus a pigment, which may be either organic or inorganic in nature. 

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