Alpha-tocopherol
Learn what Alpha-tocopherol (E307) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Alpha-tocopherol?
A food additive in the antioxidant category, naturally found in the seeds of oilseed plants, also known as vitamin E. It is extracted from vegetable oils rich in vitamin E but can also be synthetically produced.
Why is Alpha-tocopherol added to food?
Alpha-tocopherol (E307) is a antioxidant commonly found in: Infant products, products with oils and fats.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for humans is up to 2 mg/kg body weight.
Is Alpha-tocopherol safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
Is Alpha-tocopherol banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Alpha-tocopherol okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
Common foods that contain Alpha-tocopherol
- Infant products
- products with oils and fats
How to spot Alpha-tocopherol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E307
- Alpha-tocopherol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- dlpha-tocopherol
- alpha-tocodherol
- alpha-toeopherol
- alphd-tocopherol
- aldha-tocopherol
- alpha-tocopherol
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps. • High doses may interfere with anticoagulant treatments, increasing the risk of bleeding, especially for individuals on blood-thinning medication. • People with liver or kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption, as it can put additional stress on these organs. • Long-term use in large doses can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which may impact long-term health. • It may cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties, especially in individuals sensitive to vitamin E.
Also known as
- dlpha-tocopherol
- alpha-tocodherol
- alpha-toeopherol
- alphd-tocopherol
- aldha-tocopherol
- alpha-tocopherol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Alpha-tocopherol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E307 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Alpha-tocopherol
- Is Alpha-tocopherol safe to eat?
- No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
- Is Alpha-tocopherol banned anywhere?
- Alpha-tocopherol is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Alpha-tocopherol safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
- How do I spot Alpha-tocopherol on a food label?
- Look for E307, Alpha-tocopherol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dlpha-tocopherol, alpha-tocodherol, alpha-toeopherol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.