Tag: Tertiary butylhydroquinone

Used to prevent fat oxidation and extend shelf life, the food additive E319 is a synthetic antioxidant known by its chemical name, Tertiary-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). It is not a natural substance but a chemically manufactured compound derived from petroleum components.

According to the FDA, the permissible limit for TBHQ in food products is 0.02% of the total fat or oil content. This synthetic antioxidant, or tertiary butylhydroquinone, is widely used to prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of fatty foods. Regulatory bodies worldwide have established specific guidelines to ensure its safe consumption within these strict limits.

Despite being a common ingredient in many processed foods, tert-butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ, is a completely synthetic compound and not derived from natural sources. It is a man-made preservative created to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the shelf life of products.

According to the World Health Organization, the average intake of TBHQ in the U.S. can reach 90% of the acceptable daily intake. The primary source of TBHQ is synthetic production for use as an antioxidant preservative in a wide array of products, from processed foods and cooking oils to cosmetics and varnishes.