Antioxidants
Antioxidants (E300–E321) prevent oxidative rancidity in fats, oils, and fat-containing foods. They include naturally-derived compounds like ascorbic acid (E300, vitamin C) and tocopherols (E306–E309, vitamin E), as well as synthetic antioxidants including BHA (E320), BHT (E321), TBHQ (E319), and gallates (E310–E312). Synthetic antioxidants face more regulatory scrutiny than natural equivalents: TBHQ is broadly approved in the USA but very restricted in the EU, while BHA has been under EFSA re-evaluation.
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
All Antioxidants (21 additives)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TBHQ (E319) safe and why is it restricted in some countries?
TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic antioxidant broadly approved by the FDA for use in oils and fats up to 0.02% of fat content. In the EU, it is approved only in fats, oils, and processed nut products at strict maximum levels. EFSA conducted a full re-evaluation in 2020 and established a group ADI of 0.7 mg/kg body weight/day for TBHQ and BHA combined, noting some uncertainty about immunotoxicity. The regulatory divergence reflects different risk thresholds rather than a finding of harm.
What is the difference between BHA (E320) and BHT (E321)?
Both BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are synthetic phenolic antioxidants used to prevent fat oxidation. BHA is GRAS-listed in the USA and permitted in the EU at levels up to 200 mg/kg. BHT has similar global approval status. Both were placed under EFSA re-evaluation as part of systematic EU re-evaluation of previously authorised additives. The precautionary principle has led some retailers to voluntarily eliminate both from their products despite continued regulatory approval.
Are vitamin C and vitamin E counted as food additives?
Yes — when ascorbic acid (E300, vitamin C) and tocopherols (E306–E309, vitamin E) are added to food for their antioxidant preservative function, they are regulated as food additives with E numbers. This is distinct from their role as nutrients. The same molecule carries a different regulatory status depending on its stated purpose and the level of addition.