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E 239Preservatives

Hexamethylene tetramine

Characteristics

Additive NameHexamethylene tetramine
E No.E 239
TypeIndividual Substance
In plain language

A preservative used in a very narrow context — only in one specific type of ripened cheese (Provolone). It works by slowly releasing formaldehyde, which inhibits bacterial and mold growth on the rind. Synthetic origin. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and for this reason E239 is banned in most countries and heavily restricted globally. The EU permits it only for that one traditional cheese under strict limits. Still, many food safety advocates consider its continued use questionable.

Conditions of Use

This additive is authorised to be used in the following 1 food category:

1.7.2ripened cheese
Maximum Level = 25 mg/kg
residual amount, expressed as formaldehyde. only Provolone cheese

Source

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E 239 - Hexamethylene tetramine | E-Number Information