Thiabendazole
Also known as: E233
Thiabendazole is no longer authorized in the EU as food additive E233 (its use as preservative was withdrawn). EFSA has flagged endocrine and developmental concerns at high doses, and California's Prop 65 lists it as a developmental toxicant.
What it is
Thiabendazole, a benzimidazole fungicide and post-harvest treatment used on citrus and pome fruits.
Post-harvest fungicide preservative on the surface of citrus, bananas, and apples to prevent mold; also used as veterinary anthelmintic.
Why it's flagged
- developmental toxicity (Prop 65 listed)
- endocrine disruption signals
- EU approval as food additive withdrawn
What regulators actually say
"Tolerances are established for residues of the fungicide thiabendazole... in or on the following raw agricultural commodities."
"Thiabendazole was added to the Proposition 65 list as a developmental toxicant."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as post-harvest fungicide; tolerances set under 40 CFR 180.242.
European Union — EFSA
No longer authorized as food additive E233 in the EU (Regulation 1129/2011 deleted it). Approved as plant-protection active substance with reservations.
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