Tocopherols (Vitamin E) (E306) — What You Need to Know
What Is Tocopherols (Vitamin E)?
Tocopherols are a family of vitamin E compounds found naturally in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. As food additives, they serve primarily as antioxidants to prevent rancidity in fats and oils. There are four forms of tocopherol: alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. Alpha-tocopherol (E307) is the most biologically active form as vitamin E. When used in food, they provide the dual benefit of preservation and nutritional fortification.
What Is It Used For?
Prevents oxidation and rancidity in oils, fats, nuts, and foods with high fat content. Also used to fortify foods with vitamin E. Found naturally in many plant foods and added to processed foods to extend shelf life.
Safety Assessment
Extremely safe as a food additive. High-dose supplemental vitamin E (above 400 IU/day) has been associated with slightly increased all-cause mortality in some meta-analyses, but this is only relevant to high-dose supplements, not food additive levels. No concerns at normal dietary or additive levels.
Based on current evidence, Tocopherols (Vitamin E) is rated Safe with a score of 9/10. This is 1.9 points above the average for antioxidants (7.1/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2015. A typical diet provides about 142.9% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E306 or 'Tocopherols (Vitamin E)'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Tocopherols (Vitamin E)
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E306
- INS Number
- 306
- Category
- Antioxidants
- Origin
- Natural
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Authorized
- ADI
- 0.15-2 mg/kg bw/day (as alpha-tocopherol equivalent)
- Last Review
- 2015
Related Additives
Other antioxidants in the same family