Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Thiabendazole
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Thiabendazole (E233) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Thiabendazole?
Fungicide for citrus/banana skins. Now classified as pesticide, not food additive
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Check FDA database🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNEDFungicide for citrus/banana skins. Now classified as pesticide, not food additive
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNEDUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Check Health CanadaVerify with Health Canada's permitted food additives list.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
Status variesCheck ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency).
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Thiabendazole is classified as a preservative in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is banned in the EU but approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Thiabendazole safe?
Thiabendazole has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Thiabendazole vegan?
Thiabendazole is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Thiabendazole banned in Europe?
Yes, Thiabendazole is banned in the EU. Fungicide for citrus/banana skins. Now classified as pesticide, not food additive
What is Thiabendazole made from?
Fungicide for citrus/banana skins. Now classified as pesticide, not food additive
Weekly Ingredient Alert
Get weekly updates on food additive news, regulatory changes, and safety alerts.
Found a concerning additive?
Looking for cleaner alternatives? Check out these options:
Recommended Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thiabendazole safe?
Is Thiabendazole banned in any country?
What is Thiabendazole used for?
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
Related Searches
People also ask:
Want Additive-Free Food?
Explore organic food delivery services that prioritize clean ingredients.
Explore Clean Food Options →