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Food additives · TBHQ

Where TBHQ is banned, and why

By · Published · Last checked

Where it stands

E319 · Banned in 1 of 8 · Allowed in 1 of 3 in North America

  • European UnionAllowed

    Permitted as E319 with limits.

  • United KingdomAllowed

    Permitted.

  • ChinaNot verified

    Not verified in this research pass. Check GB 2760-2024, the national food additive standard.

  • RussiaNot verified

    Not verified in this research pass. Check EAEU technical regulation TR CU 029/2012 on additives.

  • JapanBanned

    Not a designated additive. Imports containing it are rejected.

  • United StatesAllowed

    Permitted at up to 0.02% of the oil or fat.

  • CanadaNot verified

    Not verified in this research pass. Check Health Canada Lists of Permitted Food Additives and the PMRA label search.

  • MexicoNot verified

    Not verified in this research pass. Check the COFEPRIS acuerdo on additives and processing aids.

Also banned in: —

Why is it restricted?

Japan never designated it as a food additive, so imported foods containing it get rejected there. The EU and FDA consider it safe at permitted levels.

Where is it found?

Frying oils, crackers, microwave popcorn, frozen fried foods.

How do I spot it on a label?

  • TBHQ
  • tert-butylhydroquinone
  • tertiary butylhydroquinone

What you can do: Found in the ingredient list as "TBHQ". Common in fried snacks and fast-food frying oil.

Quick answers

Is TBHQ allowed in food in the United States?
Allowed. Permitted at up to 0.02% of the oil or fat.
Is TBHQ allowed in food in the European Union?
Allowed. Permitted as E319 with limits.

Sources

  1. 16.Shimadzu application note: TBHQ not permitted in Japan (opens in a new tab)shimadzu.com · Secondary: law firm, trade press, major media

General information, not legal or medical advice. “Banned elsewhere” doesn't automatically mean unsafe: some bans rest on animal welfare, trade or caution. Read the fact checks before sharing a list.

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