Acetone
Acetone is permitted as an extraction solvent at very low residual levels in food. It is metabolically endogenous (ketone body) and considered safe at typical food residue exposure.
What it is
A volatile organic solvent (propan-2-one), naturally produced in the body and present in trace amounts in many foods.
Extraction solvent in food processing; trace residues only in finished foods.
Why it's flagged
- solvent residue limits required
- industrial inhalation exposure limits separate from food
What regulators actually say
"Acetone may be present in spice oleoresins as a residue from its use as an extraction solvent at levels not to exceed 30 ppm."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as a secondary direct food additive (extraction solvent) under 21 CFR 173.210.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as extraction solvent under Directive 2009/32/EC with residue limits.
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