E319: TBHQ
Main role: fat oxidation control
Also listed as: tertiary-butylhydroquinone, tert-butylhydroquinone
What is E319 (TBHQ)?
TBHQ is the common abbreviation for tertiary-butylhydroquinone, an antioxidant used to slow oxidation in specified fats and fat-containing foods. It is a different compound from BHA and BHT. A short abbreviation on a label and the full chemical name can refer to the same ingredient.
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
- Specified edible oils
- Fat-containing snack preparations
- Selected food 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 E319, E 319, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include tertiary-butylhydroquinone, tert-butylhydroquinone. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
TBHQ is not a nutritional antioxidant supplement. Its use is governed by food-grade specifications and application limits; the ingredient list alone does not disclose its concentration.
Is E319 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 E319 as Tertiary-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ). 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.