Hydrogen Peroxide
FDA permits hydrogen peroxide as a GRAS food-processing aid in defined applications, with the requirement that residues be removed and use kept within prescribed limits. EFSA has assessed its use as an antimicrobial in food-contact materials.
What it is
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an oxidizing agent used as a food bleaching/antimicrobial processing aid; residues must be substantially decomposed before consumption.
Antimicrobial, bleaching agent (e.g., for milk for cheese, modified starches), aseptic packaging sterilant.
Why it's flagged
- Direct ingestion at high concentrations is corrosive; food-grade use targets near-zero residues
What regulators actually say
"Hydrogen peroxide... is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with the following prescribed conditions."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a direct food substance under 21 CFR 184.1366 with conditions of use
European Union — EFSA
Permitted use as a processing aid/sterilant under EU rules
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