High viscosity mineral oils
Score impact
-0.30
points/product
Description
The food additive E905A, known as high viscosity mineral oils, is a complex mixture of saturated hydrocarbons (mainly paraffinic, naphthenic, and aromatic) obtained from petroleum. It is produced by fractional distillation of crude oil, followed by refining with sulfuric acid, hydrogenation, and dewaxing to remove aromatic compounds and other contaminants.
The physicochemical properties include high viscosity (≥ 11 cSt at 100 °C), low volatility, insolubility in water, and solubility in organic solvents. Its main function is as a glazing agent (prevents moisture loss and improves shine) and antifoaming agent in the food industry.
Historically, its use dates back to the early 20th century, but it was approved in the EU after evaluations by EFSA and JECFA (WHO). EFSA established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0-0.01 mg/kg body weight/day for food-grade high viscosity mineral oils (MOH), based on subchronic toxicity studies in rats. WHO/JECFA also set a similar ADI.
The overall safety assessment indicates that, within the established limits, it does not pose a significant risk to human health. On labeling, it must be listed as "mineral oil" or "high viscosity mineral oil" or its E number.
E905A is mainly used on the surface of confectionery products (chocolates, candies, chewing gums) to provide shine and prevent sticking; also as an antifoaming agent in beverage production and in the processing of fruits and vegetables.
In the Spanish market, it is found in candies, glazed fruits, and some cheeses. EU Regulation 1333/2008 authorizes its use in certain categories with maximum limits: for example, in confectionery (except chocolate) up to 3000 mg/kg, in chocolate up to 500 mg/kg, and in glazed fruits and vegetables up to 500 mg/kg. The FDA allows food-grade (white) mineral oils as direct food additives with similar limits, while Japan restricts its use to certain products. Comparatively, the EU is more restrictive regarding required purity and viscosity.
Documented adverse effects of E905A are mainly associated with long-term exposure to low viscosity mineral oils or those contaminated with aromatic hydrocarbons. However, high viscosity oils (E905A) have low intestinal absorption and are considered safe at authorized doses.
Animal studies with high doses have shown accumulation in the liver and lymph nodes, but without significant toxic effects. EFSA concluded that there is no evidence of genotoxicity or carcinogenicity for highly refined high viscosity mineral oils. No sensitive populations identified. No known interactions with medications. The ADI of 0-0.01 mg/kg bw/day ensures a wide safety margin.
In summary, consumption within legal limits does not pose a health risk.
- White mineral oil
- Food-grade mineral oil
- Liquid paraffin oil
- Highly refined mineral oil
- Saturated mineral hydrocarbons
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