Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine is not used as a direct food additive but appears in cosmetics. Concerns include potential nitrosamine formation when combined with nitrosating agents.
What it is
An organic compound (TEA) that is both a tertiary amine and a triol, used primarily as a pH adjuster and emulsifier in cosmetics and industrial applications.
Not approved for direct food use; permitted as an indirect food additive component in adhesives and coatings under FDA regulations.
Why it's flagged
- potential nitrosamine formation
- skin/eye irritation at high concentrations
- not a food ingredient
What regulators actually say
"Triethanolamine is listed as a substance permitted for use as a component of adhesives in food packaging under 21 CFR 175.105."
"Triethanolamine is permitted in rinse-off cosmetic products at concentrations up to 2.5% with restrictions to prevent nitrosamine formation under EU Regulation 1223/2009."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as indirect food additive component (21 CFR 175.105 adhesives); not approved for direct food use.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted in cosmetics under EU Regulation 1223/2009 with concentration limits.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app