Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is mostly a cosmetic/personal-care ingredient. In food, FDA permits it only as an indirect additive (component of paper/paperboard contact materials, lubricants) under 21 CFR Part 178.
What it is
C16 fatty alcohol (1-hexadecanol), a waxy long-chain alcohol.
Emulsifier/stabilizer; primarily used in cosmetics; very limited food use as a coating/glazing agent or carrier.
Why it's flagged
- limited authorization for direct food use
What regulators actually say
"Surface lubricants used in the manufacture of metallic articles... cetyl alcohol."
"Cetyl alcohol is listed in the FDA Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS) inventory."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Authorized as indirect food additive (e.g., 21 CFR 178.3910 surface lubricants); cosmetic ingredient
European Union — EFSA
No specific E-number; may appear under cosmetic/indirect food contact regulations
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