Ethoxyquin
Also known as: E324
Ethoxyquin (E324) was historically used as a food additive (E324) but has been deauthorized in the EU as a feed additive since 2017 due to concerns about a metabolite (ethoxyquin quinone imine) and lack of demonstrated safety. EFSA could not conclude on its safety in feed and the EU suspended its authorization.
What it is
Ethoxyquin (E324), a synthetic antioxidant used historically in animal feed and as a post-harvest treatment for fruit; very limited human food use today.
Antioxidant (historic); preservation against rancidity.
Why it's flagged
- EU suspension of feed authorization
- metabolites of unclear toxicity
- potential genotoxicity concerns flagged by EFSA
What regulators actually say
"EFSA could not conclude on the safety of ethoxyquin as a feed additive due to lack of data, including on a metabolite (ethoxyquin quinone imine)."
"Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/962 suspending the authorisation of ethoxyquin as a feed additive."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Tolerance for ethoxyquin residues in some animal products under 21 CFR 172.140 (limited); not a general food additive.
European Union — EFSA
Authorization for use in animal feed suspended (EU 2017/962); not approved as direct food additive.
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