Digestoa
Additive · Antioxidant

TBHQ (E319)

TBHQ (E319) is an antioxidant that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include possible toxicity at high doses.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypeAntioxidant
Found infatty and fried foods, crisps, spreads and packaged baked goods
ConcernsPossible toxicity at high doses

What is TBHQ?

TBHQ (E319) is an antioxidant — used to stop fats and oils going rancid.

Is TBHQ bad for you?

Digestoa flags TBHQ as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including possible toxicity at high doses. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain TBHQ?

Fatty and fried foods, crisps, spreads and packaged baked goods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains TBHQ. But it's a useful flag: when you see E319 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Prefer products preserved with vitamin E (E306) or rosemary extract.

Frequently asked questions

Is E319 the same as TBHQ?
Yes — E319 is the international additive (E-number) code for TBHQ.
Is TBHQ bad for you?
Digestoa flags TBHQ (E319) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as possible toxicity at high doses.
What are the side effects of TBHQ?
Reported concerns include: Possible toxicity at high doses.
What foods contain TBHQ?
Fatty and fried foods, crisps, spreads and packaged baked goods.
How can I avoid TBHQ?
Check the ingredients list for "TBHQ" or "E319", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related antioxidant additives

BHA (E320)BHT (E321)Ascorbic acid (Vit C) (E300)Sodium ascorbate (E301)Tocopherols (Vit E) (E306)Alpha-tocopherol (E307)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.