E928 – Benzoyl peroxide
Flour bleaching agentDescription
Dibenzoyl peroxide, produced synthetically by reacting benzoyl chloride with hydrogen peroxide
Notes
Benzoyl peroxide is a white, crystalline powder that's manufactured by combining benzoyl chloride with hydrogen peroxide through a controlled chemical reaction. This creates a compound that's valued for its strong oxidizing properties, making it effective at breaking down natural pigments that give flour its slightly off-white color. This additive serves primarily as a flour bleaching agent, working to whiten flour and give it that bright, pristine appearance that many consumers associate with high-quality baked goods. The bleaching process also helps improve the baking properties of the flour by modifying its proteins. You'll encounter benzoyl peroxide-treated flour in many commercial baked products, including white bread, cakes, pastries, and cookies. Benzoyl peroxide is a synthetic compound and is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets since it doesn't derive from animal sources. It doesn't contain common allergens, making it generally safe for people with food sensitivities. The compound breaks down during baking and storage, leaving minimal residues in finished products. It's widely approved for food use, though some organic and natural food producers choose to use unbleached flour instead.