Delta-tocopherol
Learn what Delta-tocopherol (E309) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Delta-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 Delta-tocopherol added to food?
Delta-tocopherol (E309) 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 Delta-tocopherol safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
Is Delta-tocopherol banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Delta-tocopherol okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
Common foods that contain Delta-tocopherol
- Infant products
- products with oils and fats
How to spot Delta-tocopherol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E309
- Delta-tocopherol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- deltd-tocopherol
- delta-tocopherol
- delta-toeopherol
- delta-tocodherol
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps. • It may interfere with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding, especially at high doses. • People with liver or kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption, as it may put additional strain on these organs. • High doses can cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, breathing difficulties, or swelling of the face and throat. • Long-term use at high doses may lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, potentially affecting health in the long run.
Also known as
- deltd-tocopherol
- delta-tocopherol
- delta-toeopherol
- delta-tocodherol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Delta-tocopherol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E309 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Delta-tocopherol
- Is Delta-tocopherol safe to eat?
- No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
- Is Delta-tocopherol banned anywhere?
- Delta-tocopherol is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Delta-tocopherol safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
- How do I spot Delta-tocopherol on a food label?
- Look for E309, Delta-tocopherol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: deltd-tocopherol, delta-tocopherol, delta-toeopherol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.