TBHQ

E number E319INS 319CAS 1948-33-0

Listed as an antioxidant by Codex and the US.

Listed as antioxidants (US, Codex) · preservatives (CA)
Chemical structure of TBHQ, from PubChem compound 16043
Structure from PubChem CID 16043 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

TBHQ, or tertiary butylhydroquinone, is a synthetic antioxidant used in frying oils and fatty snack foods. It is one of the more effective antioxidants for oils held at high temperature.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of TBHQ by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

2 food categories

highest permitted level 200 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — 200 mg/kg
  • 2 Edible oils and oil emulsions — 200 mg/kg
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

In: Fats and oils, except milk fat, olive oil and suet; Lard; Shortening. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 200 ppm. If used in any combination with butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene or propyl gallate, the total combined amount not to exceed 200 ppm.

Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item T.2retrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

18 food categories

highest permitted level 400 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 1.5 dehydrated milk as defined by directive 2001/114/ec — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only milk powder for vending machines. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 200 mg/kg. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only dehydrated soups and broths. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 12.6 Sauces — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only cereal-based snack foods. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’, — 400 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400 mg/kg. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — 400 mg/lPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400 mg/l. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. Only fats and oils for the professional manufacture of heat-treated foods; frying oil and frying fat (excluding olive pomace oil) and lard, fish oil, beef, poultry and sheep fat. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only frying fat. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only processed nuts. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — 25 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 25 mg/kg. only dehydrated potatoes. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — 400 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400 mg/kg. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. Only pre-cooked cereals. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only pre-cooked cereals. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only cake mixes. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only dehydtated meat. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200 mg/kg. only dehydrated meat. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II, as amended by (EU) No 2018/1481, via Propyl gallateand 17 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

18 food categories

highest permitted level 400 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.5 Dehydrated milk as defined by Directive 2001/114/EC — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only milk powder for vending machines. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — 200 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 310-321, Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 200. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only dehydrated soups and broths. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 12.6 Sauces — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only cereal-based snack foods. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — 400 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 310-321, Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — 400 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 310-321, Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 2.1 Fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milkfat) — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only fats and oils for the professional manufacture of heat- treated foods; frying oil and frying fat (excluding olive pomace oil) and lard, fish oil, beef, poultry and sheep fat. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (41): Expressed on fat basis.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only frying fat. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (2): The maximum level is applicable to the sum and the levels are expressed as the free acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only processed nuts. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (41): Expressed on fat basis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — 25 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 25. only dehydrated potatoes. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — 400 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 310-321, Propyl gallate, TBHQ, BHA and BHT. ML = 400. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only precooked cereals. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only pre-cooked cereals. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only cake mixes. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only dehydrated meat. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 310–320: Propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA. ML = 200. only dehydrated meat. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (13): Maximum limit expressed on fat.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 17 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyNo listing matchedThis site imports only Japan’s list of designated additives (Appended Table 1 to the Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act), matched by English name. Existing additives, natural flavouring agents and ordinary foods used as additives are permitted outside that list and are not imported, so an empty row does not show that Japan does not permit the substance.
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논 (“tert-Butylhydroquinone”, the English the Code prints beside it). Main use (주용도) of 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논: 산화방지제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논: (1) [may be used only in the foods listed; sets a limit on the amount used] “터셔리부틸히드로퀴논은 아래의 식품에 한하여 사용하여야 한다. 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논의 사용량은 1. 식용유지류(모조치즈, 식물성크림 제외), 버터류, 어패건제품, 어패염장품：0.2g/kg 이하(부틸히드록시아니솔 또는 디부틸히드록시톨루엔과 병용할 때에는 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논으로서 사용량, 디부틸히드록시톨루엔으로서 사용량 및 부틸히드록시아니솔으로서 사용량의 합계가 0.2g/kg 이하) 2. 어패냉동품(생식용 냉동선어패류, 생식용굴은 제외)의 침지액：1g/kg 이하(부틸히드록시아니솔 또는 디부틸히드록시톨루엔과 병용할 때에는 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논으로서 사용량, 디부틸히드록시톨루엔으로서 사용량 및 부틸히드록시아니솔으로서 사용량의 합계가 1g/kg 이하) 3. 추잉껌∶0.4g/kg 이하(부틸히드록시아니솔 또는 디부틸히드록시톨루엔과 병용할 때에는 터셔리부틸히드로퀴논으로서 사용량, 디부틸히드록시톨루엔으로서 사용량 및 부틸히드록시아니솔으로서 사용량의 합계가 0.4g/kg 이하)” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted, with conditions21 CFR 172.185retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

25 food categories

highest permitted level 400 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.3.2 Beverage whiteners — 100 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 195 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
    • Note XS250 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Evaporated Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 250-2006).
    • Note XS252 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Sweetened Condensed Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 252-2006).
  • 01.5.2 Milk and cream powder analogues — 100 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 481 For use in products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat in Powdered Form (CXS 251-2006), singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroxyquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
  • 02.1.1 Butter oil, anhydrous milkfat, ghee — 120 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 171 Excluding anhydrous milkfat.
    • Note 514 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981): butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320) at 175 mg/kg, butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321) at 75 mg/kg, propyl gallate (INS 310) at 100 mg/kg, and tertiary butylhydroquinone (INS 319) at 120 mg/kg; as well, any combination of INS 320, INS 321, INS 310 and INS 319 at up to 200 mg/kg, provided the single use limits are not exceeded.
  • 02.1.2 Vegetable oils and fats — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note 511 Excluding virgin and cold pressed oils in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999).
    • Note 515 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999): butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320) at 175 mg/kg, butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321) at 75 mg/kg, propyl gallate (INS 310) at 100 mg/kg, and tertiary butylhydroquinone (INS 319) at 120 mg/kg; as well, any combination of INS 320, INS 321, INS 310 and INS 319 at up to 200 mg/kg, provided the single use limits are not exceeded.
    • Note XS33 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Olive Oils and Olive Pomace Oils (CODEX STAN 33-1981).
    • Note XS325R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Unrefined Shea Butter (CXS 325R-2017).
  • 02.1.3 Lard, tallow, fish oil, and other animal fats — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note 516 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and the Standard for Named Animal Fats (CXS 211-1999) ): butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320) at 175 mg/kg, butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321) at 75 mg/kg, propyl gallate (INS 310) at 100 mg/kg, and tertiary butylhydroquinone (INS 319) at 120 mg/kg; as well, any combination of INS 320, INS 321, INS 310 and INS 319 at up to 200 mg/kg, provided the single use limits are not exceeded.
  • 02.2.2 Fat spreads, dairy fat spreads and blended spreads — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 559 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Fat Spreads and Blended Spreads (CXS 256-2007): propyl gallate (INS 310), tertiary butylhydroquinone (INS 319), butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320) and butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), singly or in combination at 200 mg/kg.
    • Note XS253 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dairy Fat Spreads (CXS 253-2006).
  • 02.3 Fat emulsions mainly of type oil-in-water, including mixed and/or flavoured products based on fat emulsions — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 02.4 Fat-based desserts excluding dairy-based dessert products of food category 01.7 — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 03.0 Edible ices, including sherbet and sorbet — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 195 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
  • 05.1.4 Cocoa and chocolate products — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note 303 Excluding products (other than white chocolate) conforming to the Standard for Chocolate and Chocolate Products (CODEX STAN 87-1981).
  • 05.2 Confectionery including hard and soft candy, nougats, etc. other than food categories 05.1, 05.3, and 05.4 — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note XS309R Excluding products conforming to the Codex Regional Standard for Halawa Tehenia (CODEX STAN 309R-211).
  • 05.3 Chewing gum — 400 mg/kg
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 05.4 Decorations (e.g. for fine bakery wares), toppings (non-fruit), and sweet sauces — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 06.4.3 Pre-cooked pastas and noodles and like products — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 07.1.1 Breads and rolls — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 195 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
  • 07.1.2 Crackers, excluding sweet crackers — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 195 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
  • 07.1.3 Other ordinary bakery products (e.g. bagels, pita, English muffins) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 07.1.4 Bread-type products, including bread stuffing and bread crumbs — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 195 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, INS 321) and tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ, INS 319).
  • 08.2 Processed meat, poultry, and game products in whole pieces or cuts — 100 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note 167 For use in dehydrated products only.
    • Note XS96 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cooked Cured Ham (CODEX STAN 96-1981).
    • Note XS97 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cooked Cured Pork Shoulder (CODEX STAN 97-1981).
  • 08.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry, and game products — 100 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note 162 For use in dehydrated products and salami-type products only.
    • Note XS88 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Corned Beef (CODEX STAN 88-1981).
    • Note XS89 Excluding products conforming to Standard for Luncheon Meat (CODEX STAN 89-1981).
    • Note XS98 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cooked Cured Chopped Meat (CODEX STAN 98-1981).
  • 12.2 Herbs, spices, seasonings, and condiments (e.g. seasoning for instant noodles) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note XS326 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Black, White and Green Peppers (CODEX STAN 326-2017).
    • Note XS327 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cumin (CODEX STAN 327-2017).
    • Note XS328 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Thyme (CODEX STAN 328-2017).
    • Note XS342 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Oregano (CXS 342-2021).
    • Note XS343 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried roots, rhizomes and bulbs: Dried or dehydrated ginger (CXS 343-2021).
    • Note XS344 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried floral parts: Cloves (CXS 344-2021).
    • Note XS345 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Basil (CXS 345-2021).
    • Note XS347 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried or dehydrated garlic (CXS 347-2019).
    • Note XS351 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Floral Parts - Saffron (CXS 351-2022).
    • Note XS352 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Seeds – Nutmeg (CXS 352-2022).
    • Note XS353 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried or Dehydrated Chilli Pepper and Paprika (CXS 353-2022).
  • 12.4 Mustards — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
  • 12.6 Sauces and like products — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
    • Note XS302 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fish Sauce (CODEX STAN 302-2011).
    • Note XS306 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Chilli Sauce (CXS 306-2011).
  • 15.0 Ready-to-eat savouries — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 130 Singly or in combination: butylated hydroxyanisole (INS 320), butylated hydroxytoluene (INS 321), tertiary butylated hydroquinone (INS 319), and propyl gallate (INS 310).
CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 319and 24 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand200 mg/kg2 numeric limit
Canada—1 no quantity stated
European Union25 mg/kg – 400 mg/kg18 numeric limit
Great Britain25 mg/kg – 400 mg/kg18 numeric limit
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius100 mg/kg – 400 mg/kg25 numeric limit

What it is made from

Synthesised from hydroquinone and isobutylene, both petroleum-derived.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
1948-33-0
InChIKey
BGNXCDMCOKJUMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N
PubChem
CID 16043

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 99 %no less than 99 %
Leadno more than 2 mg/kgno more than 2 mg/kg

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 319 Tertiary-butylhydroquinone (tbhq)

Synonyms: TBHQ

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
217-752-2
Chemical name
Tert-butyl-1,4-benzenediol; 2-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,4-benzenediol
Chemical formula
C₁₀H₁₄O₂
Molecular weight
166,22
Assay
Content not less than 99 % of C₁₀H₁₄O₂
Description
White crystalline solid having a characteristic odour

Identification

Solubility
Practically insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol
Melting point
Not less than 126,5 °C
Phenolics
Dissolve about 5 mg of the sample in 10 ml of methanol and add 10,5 ml of dimethylamine solution (1 in 4). A red to pink colour is produced

Purity criteria

Tertiary-Butyl-p-benzoquinone
Not more than 0,2 %
2,5-Di-tertiary-butyl hydroquinone
Not more than 0,2 %
Hydroxyquinone
Not more than 0,1 %
Toluene
Not more than 25 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 319

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 319 Tertiary Butylhydroquinone

Synonyms: TBHQ, INS No 319 TBHQ

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 49th JECFA (1997) , published in FNP 52 Add 5 (1997) superseding specifications prepared at the 44th JECFA (1995), publishe d in FNP 52 Add 3 (1995). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 61st JECFA (2003). An ADI of 0-0.7 mg/kg bw was established at the 49th JECFA (1997).
Chemical names
Mono-tert-butylhydroquinone, t -butylhydroquinone, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)- 1,4-benzenediol
C.A.S. number
1948-33-0
Chemical formula
C 10 H 14 O 2
Formula weight
166.22
Assay
Not less than 99.0% of C 10 H 14 O 2
DESCRIPTION
White, crystalline solid having a characteristic odour.
FUNCTIONAL USES
Antioxidant

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Practically insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol
Melting point (Vol. 4)
Not less than 126.5 o
Phenolics
Dissolve about 5 mg of the sample in 10 ml of methanol, and add 10.5 ml of dimethylamine solution (1 in 4). A red to pink colour is produced.

Purity criteria

t-Butyl-p-benzoquinone
Not more than 0.2% See description under TESTS
2,5-Di-t-butyl hydroquinone
Not more than 0.2% See description under TESTS
Hydroxyquinone
Not more than 0.1% See description under TESTS
Toluene
Not more than 25 mg/kg See description under TESTS
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 2 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”
Test: t-Butyl-p-benzoquinone
Apparatus: Use a suitable double-beam infrared spectrophotometer and matched 0.4 mm liquid sample cells with calcium fluoride windows. Reagents and Solutions: Standard preparation: Transfer about 10 mg of mono-tertiary-butyl-p-benzoquinone Reference Standard (available from US Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc., 12601 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852, USA), accurately weighed, into a 10-ml volumetric flask, dissolve in chloroform, dilute to volume with the same solvent and mix. Sample preparation: Transfer about 1 g of the sample, previously ground to a fine powder in a high-speed blender and accurately weighed, into a 10-ml volumetric flask, dissolve in chloroform, dilute to volume with the same solvent, and mix. Filter through a Millipore filter (UHWPO1300), or equivalent, before use in the Procedure below. Procedure: Fill the reference cell with chloroform and the sample cell with the Standard preparation. Place the cells in the respective reference and sample beam of the spectrophotometer, and record the infrared spectrum from 1600 to 1775 cm -1 . On the spectrum draw a background line from 1612 to 1750 cm -1 , and determine the net absorbence (A ) of the S Standard preparation at 1659 cm -1 . Similarly, obtain the spectrum of the sample preparation, and determine its net absorbence (A ) at 1659 cm -1 . U Calculation: Calculate the percent of t-butyl-p-benzoquinone in the sample by the formula: 100 × A U /A S × W S /W U where W S = the exact weight, in mg, of the mono-tertiary-butyl-p-benzoquinone Reference Standard taken W U = the exact weight, in mg, of the sample taken.
Test: 2,5-Di-t-butylhydroquinone and hydroquinone
Apparatus: Use a suitable gas chromatograph equipped with a thermal conductivity detector (F and M Model 810 or equivalent), containing a 0.61-m (2 ft) × 6.35-mm (outside diameter) stainless steel column packed with 20% Silicone SE-30, by weight and 80% Diatoport S (60/80-mesh), or equivalent materials. Operating conditions: The operating parameters may vary, depending upon the particular instrument used, but a suitable chromatogram may be obtained using the following conditions: - Column temperature: programmed from 100 to 270°, at 15° per min - Injection port temperature: 300° - Carrier gas: helium, flowing at a rate of 100 ml per min - Bridge current: 140 mA - Sensitivity: 1 × for integrator (Infotronics CRS 100), 2 × for recorder Reagents and Solutions: Stock solution: Weigh accurately about 50 mg each of hydroquinone (HQ), 2,5-di-t-butylhydroquinone (DTBHQ), and methyl benzoate (internal standard), transfer into separate 50-ml volumetric flasks, dilute to volume with pyridine, and mix. Calibration standards: Into separate 10-ml volumetric flasks add 0.50, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 ml of the HQ stock solution, then to each flask add 2 ml of the methyl benzoate (internal standard) stock solution, dilute each to volume with pyridine, and mix. In the same manner prepare four DTBHQ calibrating solutions. Prepare the trimethylsilyl derivative of each solution as follows. Add 9 drops of calibration solution to a 2-ml gas syringe, add 250 μl of N,O-bistrimethylsilylacetamide, and heat at about 80° for 10 min. Chromatograph 10-μl portions of each standard in duplicate, and plot the concentration ratio of HQ to internal standard (X-axis) against the response ratio of HQ to internal standard (Y-axis). Plot the same relationships between DTBHQ and the internal standard. Procedure: Transfer about 1 g of the sample, accurately weighed, into a 10-ml volumetric flask, add 2 ml of the methyl benzoate internal standard stock solution, dilute to volume with pyridine, and mix. Prepare the trimethylsilyl derivative as described above under Calibration standards, and then chromatograph duplicate 10-μl portions to obtain the chromatogram. The approximate peak times, in minutes, are: methyl benzoate, 2.5; TMS derivative of HQ, 5.5; TMS derivative of tert-butylhydroquinone, 7.3; TMS derivative of DTBHQ, 8.4. Calculation: Determine the peak areas (response) of interest by automatic integration or manual triangulation. Calculate the response ratio of HQ and DTBHQ to internal standard. From the calibration curves determine the concentration ratio of HQ and DTBHQ to internal standard, and calculate the % HQ and % DTBHQ in the sample by the formula: A = Y × I × 10/S where A = the % HQ or % DTBHQ in the sample Y = the concentration ratio (X-axis on calibration curve) I = the percentage (w/v) of internal standard in the Sample preparation S = the weight of sample taken, in g.
Test: Toluene
Apparatus: Use a suitable gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector (F and M Model 810 or equivalent), containing a 3.66-m (12-ft) × 3.18-mm (outside diameter) stainless steel column packed with 10% Silicone SE-30, by weight, and 90% Diatoport S (60/80 mesh), or equivalent materials. Operating conditions: The operating parameters may vary, depending upon the particular instrument used, but a suitable chromatogram may be obtained using the following conditions: - Column temperature: programmed from 70 to 280° at 15° per minute and held - Injection port temperature: 275° - Cell temperature: 300° - H 2 and O 2 (or air) settings: 1.4 atm (20 psi) each Reagents and solutions: Standard solution: Prepare a solution of toluene in octanol containing approximately 50 μg per ml, and calculate the exact concentration (C R ) in percent (w/v). Sample solution: Transfer about 2 g of the sample, accurately weighed, into a 10-ml volumetric flask, dissolve in octanol, dilute to volume with the same solvent, and mix. Calculate the exact concentration of the solution (C S ) in percent (w/v). Procedure: Inject a 5-μl portion of the Standard solution into the chromatograph, and measure the height of the toluene peak (H R ) on the chromatogram. The toluene retention time is 3.3 min; other peaks are of no interest in this analysis. Similarly, obtain the chromatogram on a 5-μl portion of the Sample solution and of a blank consisting of octanol, and measure the height of the toluene peak (H S ). Calculation: Calculate the mg/kg of toluene in the sample by the formula: H /C × C /C × 10 6 S R R S
Test: METHOD OF
Transfer about 170 mg of the sample, previously ground to a fine powder
Test: ASSAY
and accurately weighed, into a 250-ml wide-mouth conical flask, and dissolve in 10 ml of methanol. Add 150 ml of water, 1 ml of N sulfuric acid, and 4 drops of diphenylamine indicator (3 mg of p-diphenylaminesulfonic acid, sodium salt, per ml of 0.1 N sulfuric acid), and titrate with 0.1 N ceric sulfate to the first complete colour change from yellow to red-violet. Record the volume, in ml, of 0.1 N ceric sulfate required as V. Calculate the percent of C 10 H 14 O 2 in the sample, uncorrected for hydroquinone (HQ) and 2,5-di-tert-butylhydro- quinone (DTBHQ), by the formula: (V - 0.1 ml) × N × 8.311/W where 0.1 ml = the volume of ceric sulfate consumed by the primary oxidation products of tert-butylhydroquinone ordinarily present in the sample N = the normality of the standard ceric sulfate solution W = the weight of the sample taken, in g. Record the uncorrected percentage thus calculated as A. If HQ and DTBHQ are present in the sample, they will be included in the titration. Calculate the corrected percentage of C 10 H 14 O 2 in the sample by the formula: A - (%HQ x 1.51) - (%DTBHQ x 0.75) using the respective values for % HQ and % DTBHQ as determined by the gas chromatographic procedures given above.

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Authorised in other additives, enzymes, flavourings and nutrients

These authorisations are not for use in food. They let this substance be used inside another additive, a food enzyme, a flavouring or a nutrient preparation — often as a carrier — and it reaches food only as part of that product. Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.

PartMay be used inMaximum levelCitation
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavouringsEssential oils1 000 mg/kg (propyl gallate, TBHQ and BHA, individually or in combination) in the essential oilsRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 4

Every name it appears under

99 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E319

INS number

  • 319

CAS registry number

  • 1948-33-0

As it appears in regulation

  • TBHQ
  • Tertiary-butyl hydroquinone
  • Tertiary-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ)

Other names

  • 1,4-Benzenediol (1,1-dimethylethyl)-
  • 1,4-Benzenediol, 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-
  • 2-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,4-benzenediol
  • 2-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,4-dihydroxybenzene
  • 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)benzene-1,4-diol
  • 2-(tert-butyl)benzene-1,4-diol
  • 2-(tert-butyl)benzene-14-diol
  • 2-t-butyl hydroquinone
  • 2-t-Butyl-1,4-benzenediol
  • 2-t-Butylhydroquinone
  • 2-tert-Butyl(1,4
  • 2-tert-Butyl(1,4)hydroquinone
  • 2-tert-Butyl-1,4-benzenediol
  • 2-tert-butyl-hydroquinone
  • 2-tert-butylbenzene-1,4-diol
  • 2-tert-Butylhydroquinone
  • 2-tertiary-butylhydroquinone
  • Banox 20BA
  • BRN 0637923
  • Butylhydroquinone, t-
  • Butylhydroquinone, tert-
  • Butylhydroxyanisole O-Desmethyl Impurity
  • CCRIS 1447
  • E 319
  • Eastman MTBHQ
  • EYK
  • HSDB 838
  • Hydroquinone, t-butyl-
  • Hydroquinone, tert-butyl-
  • INS NO.319
  • INS-319
  • Mono-tert-butylhydroquinone
  • Mono-tertiarybutylhydroquinone
  • monotertiary butyl hydroquinone
  • MTBHQ
  • Sustane
  • Sustane TBHQ
  • t-BHQ
  • t-Butyl hydroquinone
  • t-butyl-hydroquinone
  • T-BUTYLHYDROQUINONE
  • TBHQ
  • TBHQ (Standard)
  • TBHQ/tert-Butylhydroquinone
  • Tenox 20
  • Tenox TBHO
  • Tenox TBHQ
  • Tenox TBHQTBHQ
  • tert-butyl hydroquinone
  • Tert-butyl hydroquinone TBHQ
  • tert-Butyl-1,4-benzenediol
  • tert-butyl-hydroquinone
  • tert-Butylhydrochinone
  • tert-Butylhydroquinon
  • tert-Butylhydroquinone
  • tert-Butylhydroquinone, 97%
  • tert.-butyl hydroquinone
  • Tertiary butylhydroquinone
  • Tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)
  • Tertiary-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ)
  • tertiary-Butylhydroquinone

Systematic names

  • 2-Tert-butylbenzene-1,4-diol

Hazard reference values

EFSA and JECFA have both set an acceptable daily intake for TBHQ, and they agree: 0.7 mg/kg bw/day. An acceptable daily intake is a reference value set by a committee, not a threshold above which harm begins. See where the two committees differ.

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADI0.7 mg/kg bw/day—JECFA1997
ADI0.7 mg/kg bw/dayconsumersEFSAnot identified in the dataset

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 319?
E 319 is TBHQ. TBHQ, or tertiary butylhydroquinone, is a synthetic antioxidant used in frying oils and fatty snack foods. It is one of the more effective antioxidants for oils held at high temperature.
What is TBHQ used for in food?
It is listed as an antioxidant — the role Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is TBHQ permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is TBHQ vegan?
Yes. TBHQ is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

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