Food Additives Encyclopedia

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thiabendazole ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namethiabendazole
English namethiabendazole
INS/E numberINS 233
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1974
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Thiabendazole is a benzimidazole fungicide used for post-harvest treatment of fruits and vegetables to control storage moulds such as Penicillium and green mould.

Source ​

Industrial：邻苯二胺与硫氰酸铵缩合环化制得

Why is it used? ​

  • Controls storage moulds on produce
  • Extends shelf life of citrus, bananas, etc.
  • Used by dipping or spraying produce
  • Applied post-harvest, not in processing

Common Foods ​

  • Citrus fruits
  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Pears
  • Some vegetables

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.1 mg/kg bw

Concerns：

  • 需严格控制果蔬残留限量
  • 过量摄入有毒性
  • 部分国家限用或关注其安全性

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》（限果蔬保鲜）；GB 2763 农药最大残留限量

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex III (E 233, 限果蔬表面处理)
  • EU pesticide MRLs (Reg. 396/2005)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.155 (Thiabendazole for use on fruits/vegetables)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 233)
  • Codex MRLs for thiabendazole
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Thiabendazole)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.1 mg/kg bw)

In a nutshell ​

Thiabendazole is a post-harvest fungicide for produce, requiring strict residue control for safety.

Consumer Advice ​

Thiabendazole is an antifungal agent applied to the skins of bananas, citrus and other fruit to prevent rot during storage and transport; it is not added directly to food and in China is regulated mainly as a pesticide. Residues sit on the peel, so washing and peeling before eating greatly reduces intake. At permitted levels residues are low and normal consumption is safe.

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.