Several toothpastes still contain carcinogens in their composition – BFMTV

Pointed out, titanium dioxide, yet already banned in food. White teeth, but at what price? In a vast survey devoted to the composition of toothpaste, 60 million consumers analyzed the composition of 12 of these products among the most used by the French. The results are edifying since according to this same media, three out of four products contain a substance that is problematic for health: titanium dioxide.” What is worrying, disturbing, is the presence of titanium dioxide which is always there in the half of toothpaste. Currently, titanium dioxide is banned in food because there are suspicions of carcinogenic effects”, reveals, with BFMTV, Sophie Coisne, deputy editor-in-chief at 60 Millions de consommateurs. titanium dioxide in the viewfinderAccording to a note from ANSES, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, this substance, in the form of a nanometric powder, is used “for its absorption properties of ultraviolet rays and its white coloring character.” In the light of several studies carried out by this same agency, the Risk Assessment Committee (CER or RAC for risk assessment committee) of ECHA (European Agency for chemicals) concluded that the substance should be “classified as a suspected human carcinogen category 2 by inhalation.” In fact, manufacturers must inform about their product “the risks incurred by workers when handling products containing TiO2 (its chemical name, editor’s note).” This is not the first time that titanium dioxide has been identified. in consumer products. In 2019, the association Agir pour l’environnement revealed that two-thirds of the toothpastes tested contained it. It was also recalled that “titanium dioxide is used to color white and to opacify toothpaste, to give it a more ‘hygienic’ appearance that manufacturers consider to be more profitable.” Favoring fluorideTo avoid risks, 60 millions of consumers advise the French to carefully read the compositions of toothpastes, a reflex that still seems far from certain. Especially since according to this same survey, it is also advisable to be wary of products promising a dazzling whiteness, its too abrasive components which can damage the enamel of the teeth. Conversely, it is preferable to favor toothpastes with a high concentration. of fluorine. “This is the most important element, it allows to remineralize the teeth. It is important in terms of acid attacks, fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent the risk of cavities”, explains, with from BFMTV, dentist Saoussen Hamitouche. As far as toothpastes for children are concerned, 60 Millions de consommateurs recommends respecting the ages indicated in order to promote good dental growth.