Introduction and Applications of Terbutylhydroquinone (Ⅰ)
Introduction and Applications of Terbutylhydroquinone (TBHQ)
Introduction of TBHQ
Terbutylhydroquinone (TBHQ) is a common food additive, which is widely used as antioxidant and preservative for edible oils, fats and oils, meat, fish, beverages and other foods. In this article, we will introduce the chemical properties, safety, uses and precautions for the use of TBHQ in detail.
I. Chemical Properties
The chemical name of TBHQ is 2-tert-butyl-4,5-imidazolidinedione, with the molecular formula of C10H12N2O2, which is a white to light yellow crystalline powder with a slight special odor. Terbutylhydroquinone is a weakly alkaline antioxidant, strong in acidic media and weak in alkaline media. It has low solubility in solvents such as water, ethanol and acetone, and high solubility in oils and fats.
Ⅱ.Safety
Terbutylhydroquinone is safe at the specified use level. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for terbutylhydroquinone is 0.025 mg/kg body weight. However, there is controversy over the safety of terbutylhydroquinone, with some studies suggesting that it may have negative effects on human health, including risks of carcinogenicity, teratogenicity and reproductive toxicity. Therefore, it is recommended to minimize the use of terbutylhydroquinone in food production or to find other safer antioxidant alternatives.
III. Uses
Terbutylhydroquinone is mainly used as a food antioxidant and preservative. It can delay food oxidation and extend shelf life, preventing food spoilage and discoloration. Tebutylhydroquinone is widely used in edible oils, fats and oils, meat, fish, beverages and other foods. Adding TBP to edible oil can delay oxidative deterioration of oil and improve the stability of oil; adding TBP to meat and fish can prevent oxidative discoloration and corruption of meat products; adding TBP to beverages can prevent discoloration and deterioration of beverages.