E307 – Alpha-tocopherol
AntioxidantsDescription
A fat-soluble vitamin E analog, antioxidant, protects against oxidation
Notes
Alpha-tocopherol is simply vitamin E in its most common and active form. It can be extracted from vegetable oils like sunflower, safflower, and wheat germ oil, or it can be made synthetically in laboratories. The natural extraction process involves distilling and purifying the oils to concentrate the vitamin E compounds. As an antioxidant, alpha-tocopherol prevents fats and oils in foods from going rancid by blocking the chemical reactions that cause spoilage. You'll find it added to cooking oils, margarine, nuts, seeds, cereals, and many processed foods that contain fats. It's especially important in foods with polyunsaturated fats, which are more prone to oxidation. This additive is not only safe but beneficial since vitamin E is an essential nutrient your body needs for healthy cell function. Both natural and synthetic versions are considered equivalent in terms of food preservation, though natural vitamin E is slightly more potent as a nutrient. It's suitable for all dietary restrictions including vegan, vegetarian, kosher, and halal diets.