E307: Alpha-Tocopherol
Main role: fat oxidation control
Also listed as: α-tocopherol, alpha tocopherol
What is E307 (Alpha-Tocopherol)?
Alpha-tocopherol E307 is one form in the tocopherol family. It can protect suitable fat-containing foods against oxidative deterioration. Although tocopherols are associated with vitamin E, the technological role in a recipe is distinct from a quantified nutritional claim.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is fat oxidation control. An antioxidant additive helps manage oxidation within the food, such as changes in fat, flavor, or color. That technical role is separate from claims that eating the ingredient will provide a particular health benefit.
Food and formulation examples
- Edible oils
- Fat-containing foods
- Antioxidant ingredient blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E307, E 307, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include α-tocopherol, alpha tocopherol. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
E307 identifies alpha-tocopherol rather than a mixed tocopherol extract. Vitamin E labeling depends on the declared nutrient amount and form, not merely the presence of this additive.
Is E307 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E307 as Alpha-tocopherol. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.