Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Formaldehyde
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Formaldehyde (E240) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and banned/not approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Formaldehyde?
Highly toxic. Banned worldwide as food additive. Known carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
BANNEDUS name: Formaldehyde
Not permitted as food additive in US
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNEDHighly toxic. Banned worldwide as food additive. Known carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNEDUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Likely restrictedStatus may differ from US. Check Health Canada's List of Permitted Food Additives.
🇦🇺 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
Formaldehyde 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 banned or not approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. Formaldehyde remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Formaldehyde safe?
Formaldehyde has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Formaldehyde vegan?
Formaldehyde is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Formaldehyde banned in Europe?
Yes, Formaldehyde is banned in the EU. Highly toxic. Banned worldwide as food additive. Known carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
What is Formaldehyde made from?
Highly toxic. Banned worldwide as food additive. Known carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Formaldehyde safe?
Is Formaldehyde banned in any country?
What is Formaldehyde used for?
Often Found Together
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