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E307Fine

Alpha-tocopherol

Group: Antioxidants

Harm level1 of 5No concern

In plain words

Alpha-tocopherol is the main and most active form of vitamin E in the body. It is added to protect fats from going rancid and to fortify foods such as oils, spreads, baby foods and cereals.

Where you find it: oils, cereals, baby food

Our recommendation

No need to avoid it; if you take blood thinners, discuss supplements with your doctor.

Possible risks and effects

  • No relevant risk known at normal dietary intake.
  • Very high supplement doses may increase bleeding tendency in people on blood thinners.

For experts

It is synthetic (all-rac) or natural (RRR) alpha-tocopherol acting as a lipid-phase antioxidant. EFSA re-evaluated it with E306–E309 in 2015 and found no safety concern at reported uses. Separately, EFSA has set a tolerable upper intake level for vitamin E as a nutrient, relevant mainly to supplements.

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This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.