E308 · Gamma-tocopherol
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E308?
Gamma-tocopherol is a natural form of vitamin E found in soybean, corn, and sesame oils. As a food additive it is used mainly as an antioxidant to slow the oxidation of fats and oils, extending shelf life. It is also a component of mixed tocopherols used in dietary supplements. Claims about unique cardiovascular or immune benefits beyond its antioxidant role are not well established and are not the basis for its food-additive approval.
Also appears on labels as: Gamma-tocopherol, γ-Tocopherol, Gamma tocopherol, Tocopherol gamma, Vitamin E gamma, Food grade gamma-tocopherol, Gamma tocopherol powder, Gamma tocopherol concentrate, Mixed tocopherols (including gamma), Synthetic gamma-tocopherol, Additivo alimentare gamma-tocopherol, Additif alimentaire gamma-tocopherol.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels used as an antioxidant.
- Very high supplemental doses of tocopherols may interfere with vitamin K function and blood clotting.
Frequently asked questions
Is E308 safe?
Our overall verdict for E308 (Gamma-tocopherol) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E308 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Gamma-tocopherol — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E308 and why is it used?
Gamma-tocopherol is a natural form of vitamin E found in soybean, corn, and sesame oils. As a food additive it is used mainly as an antioxidant to slow the oxidation of fats and oils, extending shelf life. It is also a component of mixed tocopherols used in dietary supplements. Claims about unique cardiovascular or immune benefits beyond its antioxidant role are not well established and are not the basis for its food-additive approval.
Does E308 contain allergens?
Yes — known allergens associated with Gamma-tocopherol: soy.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.