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AntioxidantINS 306
E306
Tocopherols (Vitamin E)
What you need to know
Tocopherols are vitamin E, extracted from vegetable oils. They stop fats going rancid.
They are the most common natural replacement for synthetic antioxidants like BHA and BHT.
They are a nutrient as well as an additive — no safe-limit concerns at food levels.
Where it stands, by region
The same additive can be approved in one country and banned in another. This is the divergence that matters most.
| 🇦🇺AU / NZ | Approved Permitted (FSANZ Food Standards Code). |
| 🇪🇺EU | Approved Permitted (EFSA). |
| 🇺🇸US | Approved Permitted (FDA). |
| 🇨🇦CA | Approved Permitted (Health Canada). |
Health evidence
How settled the science is for each area — not how dangerous. “Unknown” means not enough good studies yet.
Hyperactivity & behaviour
Unknown
Allergy & intolerance
Unknown
Gut microbiome
Unknown
Metabolic effects
Unknown
Carcinogenicity
Unknown
Cardiovascular
Unknown
Mixed tocopherols concentrate from edible vegetable oils. JECFA ADI 'not specified'.
Synthesis: Natural-derived (vegetable oils)ADI Not specified (acceptable)