Tocopherols
Learn what Tocopherols (E306) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Tocopherols?
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 Tocopherols added to food?
Tocopherols (E306) 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 Tocopherols safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
Is Tocopherols banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Tocopherols okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
Common foods that contain Tocopherols
- Infant products
- products with oils and fats
How to spot Tocopherols on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E306
- Tocopherols
Common misspellings to watch for:
- tocopherols
- toeopherols
- tocopherol$
- tocodherols
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. • High doses of tocopherols can interfere with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. • People with liver or kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption, as it may worsen these conditions. • Long-term use in high doses can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, affecting long-term health. • It may cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals.
Also known as
- tocopherols
- toeopherols
- tocopherol$
- tocodherols
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Tocopherols? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E306 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Tocopherols
- Is Tocopherols safe to eat?
- No side effects occur at the levels used in food.
- Is Tocopherols banned anywhere?
- Tocopherols is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Tocopherols safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in food for children within the limits set.
- How do I spot Tocopherols on a food label?
- Look for E306, Tocopherols in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: tocopherols, toeopherols, tocopherol$.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.