Food Additives Encyclopedia

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orthophenyl phenol (2-hydroxybiphenyl) ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nameorthophenyl phenol (2-hydroxybiphenyl)
English nameorthophenyl phenol (2-hydroxybiphenyl)
INS/E numberINS 231
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1974
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Orthophenyl phenol (2-hydroxybiphenyl) is an aromatic compound used mainly as a fungistat on citrus fruit peel to inhibit moulds such as Penicillium.

Source ​

Industrial：以联苯为原料经傅-克烷基化、氧化等反应制得

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits mould growth on citrus peel
  • Extends post-harvest shelf life
  • Used in fruit-packaging paper or wax coatings
  • Applied as surface treatment, not direct addition

Common Foods ​

  • Citrus fruit (orange, lemon, grapefruit) surface treatment
  • Fruit-packaging papers
  • Fruit wax coatings

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.2 mg/kg bw

Concerns：

  • 仅用于水果表皮，不可食用
  • 过量有刺激性，需控制果皮残留
  • 部分国家限制使用

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》（限柑橘类水果保鲜）

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex III (E 231, 限柑橘类水果表面处理)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.212 (Orthophenylphenol for citrus fruit)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 231)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Orthophenylphenol)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.2 mg/kg bw)

In a nutshell ​

Orthophenyl phenol is a fungistat restricted to citrus peel, safe only with strict surface-residue control.

Consumer Advice ​

2-Phenylphenol (orthophenyl phenol) is a fungicide applied to citrus skins to stop mould growth during storage and transport; it is not added directly to food. Safety assessments in several countries consider it acceptable within limits, but residues sit mainly on the peel, so wash fruit well or peel it before eating, especially if the peel will be used for infusions or candied peel.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.