Benzophenone-3
Benzophenone-3 is a cosmetic UV filter, not an approved food additive. The FDA has noted concerns about systemic absorption from sunscreens and proposed reclassifying it pending more data; it should not appear in food.
What it is
Benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone) is a UV-absorbing chemical used in sunscreens and other cosmetics.
Not used as a food ingredient. UV filter in cosmetics; trace migrant possible from packaging.
Why it's flagged
- endocrine-disruption concerns
- systemic absorption from topical use
What regulators actually say
"FDA has proposed that of the 16 currently marketed active ingredients [in OTC sunscreens]... only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are GRASE; data are insufficient for the others, including oxybenzone."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not approved as a food additive; sunscreen active under FDA OTC monograph review.
European Union — EFSA
Not authorized as a food additive; cosmetic regulation under EC 1223/2009 limits use.
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