When E171 is part of a food product, it passes through the digestive system without causing harm because E171 combines with the other ingredients.
Here it has been shown that functionalization of P25TiO2NPs with vitamin B2 was able to significantly decrease the oxidative stress produced when they are exposed to sunlight. This finding is of main importance to prevent skin damage and toxicity of sunscreens containing this form of untreated titanium dioxide and should be taken into consideration when updating the regulations mentioned above .
In addition to Skittles, other candies that contain titanium dioxide include Nice! mints, Trolli sour gummies and Ring Pops, according to Environmental Working Group.