What is E586?
E586 is 4-Hexylresorcinol — a synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E586 (4-Hexylresorcinol)?
E586 is the E-number for 4-hexylresorcinol, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. A synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish. Like every E-number, E586 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E586 in detail below.
Where is E586 found?
E586 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E586) or by its full name, 4-hexylresorcinol. Common foods that may contain E586 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E586 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E586 safe?
E586 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E586.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E586 vegan?
E586 is vegan. A synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E586 →Is E586 halal?
E586 is halal. A synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E586 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E586 in food?
E586 is 4-Hexylresorcinol — a synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E586 safe to eat?
Yes. E586 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E586 vegan?
E586 is vegan. A synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E586 halal?
E586 is halal. A synthetic anti-browning agent used on shellfish, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).