Titanium dioxide. a commonly used ingredient in household items. is known for its ability to provide color and UV protection. A variety of products such as paints. cosmetics. sunscreens. food. paper. plastics. inks and many others utilize this white pigment. When found in food. it is typically listed as E171 and serves as a whitening agent. However. due to growing worries about its potential effects on health and safety. there has been significant scrutiny and reevaluation of its presence in food and cosmetics. To ensure minimal exposure. it is advisable to review product labels if these concerns are top of mind for you.

Polypropylene, a versatile thermoplastic polymer widely used in various applications, has a simple yet critical molecular structure that grants it unique properties such as strength, durability, and chemical resistance. The molecular formula for polypropylene is (C3H6)n, with "n" indicating the number of monomer units (propylene) in the polymer chain. This structure is the result of polymerization, wherein multiple propylene (C3H6) monomers undergo a chain-growth mechanism facilitated by catalysts to form long molecular chains. The specific arrangement and orientation of these chains (stereoregularity) can vary, giving rise to different forms of polypropylene, such as atactic, isotactic, and syndiotactic, each possessing distinct characteristics suitable for various applications, ranging from packaging materials to automotive components.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a widely used plastic in various applications, from construction materials to household items. Generally, solid PVC products are considered safe to touch and handle in their final form. The primary health concerns associated with PVC arise during its manufacture and disposal phases, where the release of toxic chlorine-based chemicals can occur. Additionally, the plasticizers added to make PVC flexible, such as phthalates, can leach out over time and pose health risks upon prolonged exposure. However, touching PVC does not typically cause immediate harm or toxicity to humans under normal use circumstances. It's advisable to practice good hygiene, washing hands after handling PVC materials, especially before eating or touching the face. For sensitive applications, alternatives to PVC or phthalate-free PVC products are available and can be considered based on the specific usage and exposure risks.