Is Silicon Dioxide Harmful to Health?

What is Silicon Dioxide?

Chemical structure and properties of silicon dioxide

Where is silicon dioxide found?

Silicon dioxide is a mineral known by the formula SiO2 and is abundant in nature. Silicon dioxide is the main component of sand, rock and crystalline quartz and is also widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Silicon dioxide is particularly well known for its "anti-caking" properties as a food additive and is therefore found in many processed food products.

In Which Products is Silicon Dioxide Used?

Widespread use of silicon dioxide in food and industry

How is silicon dioxide used in food?

Silicon dioxide is widely used as an anti-caking agent in foods and pharmaceuticals. Especially in dry foods such as flour, spices, salt and sugar, silicon dioxide prevents the products from sticking together and moisturizing. Silicon dioxide is also used in the production of pharmaceutical tablets. This helps the tablets to maintain their structural integrity and make them easier to consume.

Is Silicon Dioxide Harmful to Health?

Health effects of silicon dioxide

Is silicon dioxide safe to consume?

Silicon dioxide is an additive recognized as safe by the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). According to various studies, silicon dioxide is not absorbed or digested by the body and therefore does not cause any serious harm to health. Silicon dioxide is usually excreted through the digestive system. However, it is noted that more research is needed on the health effects in case of excessive amounts and continuous exposure.

Silicon Dioxide and Respiratory Risks

Risks of respirable silicon dioxide

Is inhalation of silicon dioxide in fine powder form harmful?

Inhalation of silicon dioxide may pose some health risks. Crystallized silicon dioxide (silica), especially in the form of fine dust, can cause respiratory problems with prolonged exposure. Crystallized silica can cause a serious lung disease called silicosis. For this reason, it is very important to use appropriate protective equipment for workers in silicon dioxide dust handling processes and industry.

Silicon Dioxide and its Safety as a Food Additive

Is silicon dioxide safe to use in food?

Is the consumption of foods containing silicon dioxide harmful?

Silicon dioxide is generally considered safe when used in small quantities as a food additive. Silicon dioxide used in food products is generally considered harmless because it is not absorbed by the body. However, caution should be exercised with long-term consumption of products containing excessive amounts of silicon dioxide. Some experts argue that more research is needed on the potential long-term effects of silicon dioxide.

Silicon Dioxide and Skin Contact

Is silicon dioxide harmful for the skin?

Are cosmetic products containing silicon dioxide safe?

Silicone dioxide is also widely used in cosmetics and does not usually cause skin irritation. Used in skin care products and make-up, silicone dioxide makes the skin look smooth and helps products to distribute better. However, some irritating effects can be observed on very sensitive skin. Therefore, regardless of skin type, it is recommended to be careful when choosing cosmetic products and to consult a dermatologist before use.

Conclusion About Silicon Dioxide

General safety of silicon dioxide

Is silicon dioxide harmful or beneficial?

In general, silicon dioxide is a common ingredient in everyday life and is considered safe as a food additive. Widely used in food products, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, it does not accumulate in the body and is harmlessly excreted. However, caution should be exercised in case of prolonged and excessive exposure, and protective measures should be taken in environments with respiratory risk. Although research on silicon dioxide generally indicates that it is safe, individuals are advised to be careful and be aware of the ingredients in products.