E309 · Delta-tocopherol
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E309?
Delta-tocopherol is one of the less common forms of vitamin E, found in vegetable oils and seeds such as soybean oil. It is used as a food additive antioxidant to protect fats and oils from oxidation and rancidity. It is typically present in smaller amounts than alpha- or gamma-tocopherol in mixed tocopherol blends. Specific claims that it is particularly effective against cancer are not established in humans and go beyond its approved antioxidant use.
Also appears on labels as: Delta-tocopherol, D-Delta-tocopherol, Vitamin E delta, Food grade delta-tocopherol, Delta tocopherol powder, Delta tocopherol concentrate, Additivo alimentare delta-tocopherol, Additif alimentaire delta-tocopherol, Lebensmittelzusatzstoff delta-tocopherol, d-Delta-tocopherol, Tocopherol delta, Mixed tocopherols (including delta).
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 E309 safe?
Our overall verdict for E309 (Delta-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 E309 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Delta-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 E309 and why is it used?
Delta-tocopherol is one of the less common forms of vitamin E, found in vegetable oils and seeds such as soybean oil. It is used as a food additive antioxidant to protect fats and oils from oxidation and rancidity. It is typically present in smaller amounts than alpha- or gamma-tocopherol in mixed tocopherol blends. Specific claims that it is particularly effective against cancer are not established in humans and go beyond its approved antioxidant use.
Does E309 contain allergens?
Yes — known allergens associated with Delta-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.