E309 — delta-tocopherol

E309, known as delta-tocopherol, is a synthetic form of vitamin E utilized in the food industry primarily as an antioxidant. It helps prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the shelf life of food products.

Danger Level: 1 (Generally Safe) – Delta-tocopherol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used within established regulatory limits. As a form of vitamin E, it contributes to the body’s antioxidant defenses.

Purpose in Products

Delta-tocopherol serves several functions in food products:

  • Antioxidant: Prevents the oxidation of fats and oils, which can lead to rancidity and spoilage.
  • Preservative: Maintains the freshness, flavor, and nutritional quality of food products, especially those with a high fat content.

Common applications include:

  • Oils and Fats: Added to cooking oils, margarine, and butter to prevent rancidity.
  • Snack Foods: Used to delay the oxidation of fatty snacks like nuts and chips.
  • Baked Goods: Helps preserve freshness in products containing fats, such as pastries and cakes.
  • Processed Meats: Included to maintain quality and extend shelf life.

Health Considerations

Delta-tocopherol is a form of vitamin E, an essential nutrient that acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage. While it is less potent than alpha-tocopherol in terms of vitamin E activity, delta-tocopherol has unique antioxidant properties that are beneficial for health.

There have been no significant health issues associated with the consumption of E309. In fact, tocopherols, including delta-tocopherol, are essential for human health, contributing to the protection of cells against oxidative damage and supporting immune function.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated the safety of tocopherols, including delta-tocopherol, and concluded that there is no safety concern at the levels used in food. 

Impact on Children

As a form of vitamin E, delta-tocopherol is essential for growth and development in children. There are no specific concerns regarding its consumption in typical dietary amounts.

Impact on Taste

Delta-tocopherol may impart a strong flavor, which can limit its applications in certain food products. 

Compatibility with Other Additives

Delta-tocopherol is compatible with various food additives and is often used alongside other antioxidants and preservatives to achieve desired product stability.

Natural Occurrence

Delta-tocopherol is naturally present in many plant oils, such as soybean oil, and in nuts and seeds. It can also be synthesized for use as a food additive.

Alternatives and Substitutes

Depending on the application, alternatives to delta-tocopherol as an antioxidant may include:

  • Alpha-Tocopherol (E307): Another form of vitamin E with higher biological activity.
  • Gamma-Tocopherol (E308): A synthetic form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant.
  • Ascorbic Acid (E300): Commonly known as vitamin C, used as an antioxidant.
  • Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA, E320): A synthetic antioxidant used to prevent rancidity in fats and oils.

Regulation

Delta-tocopherol (E309) is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including those in the European Union and the United States. Regulatory agencies have established guidelines to ensure its safe use in food products.

Conclusion

E309 (Delta-Tocopherol) is a synthetic form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant in the food industry to preserve the quality of fat-containing products. It is generally considered safe and also contributes to human health by protecting against oxidative damage.