Palm With Citric Acid And TBHQ

Palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. It is a semi-solid at room temperature and is known for its stability and versatility. Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. TBHQ (tert-Butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic antioxidant.

This combination is often used as a preservative system in packaged foods, particularly baked goods like crackers. The palm oil provides a stable fat base, while citric acid and TBHQ work together to prevent the oil from going rancid and extending the product's shelf life.

Palm oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Citric acid is also GRAS and is widely used as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer. TBHQ is an FDA-approved antioxidant additive. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated TBHQ and established acceptable daily intakes. While generally considered safe at typical levels, some studies have raised questions about the long-term effects of high TBHQ intake, though regulatory bodies maintain its safety within established limits.