Alpha-tocopherol
What is Alpha-tocopherol?
Alpha-tocopherol is a form of vitamin E, a fat-soluble nutrient naturally found in many foods like vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. It can be produced synthetically for use in food. It functions as an antioxidant.
Is Alpha-tocopherol a major allergen?
Alpha-tocopherol is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Alpha-tocopherol used for?
Manufacturers add alpha-tocopherol to foods primarily as an antioxidant to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid, thereby extending shelf life.
Is Alpha-tocopherol safe?
Alpha-tocopherol is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add alpha-tocopherol to foods primarily as an antioxidant to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid, thereby extending shelf life. It is commonly found in processed foods containing fats, such as baked goods, cereals, and snacks.
Health notes
Alpha-tocopherol is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is a form of vitamin E, which is an essential nutrient. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated its safety. EFSA has not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified).
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | 100 |
| 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) | 200 |
| 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1 foods for infants and young children | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.1 infant formulae as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 10 |
| 13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 10 |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 100 |
Allergen info
Alpha-tocopherol is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not derived from any of these allergens.
Foods that contain Alpha-tocopherol
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