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Mineral Oil

Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Mineral Oil is a solvent processing aid — Refined liquid hydrocarbon used as defoamer, coating, lubricant, dough divider, pan oil

Also: White Oil

What it does

Refined liquid hydrocarbon used as defoamer, coating, lubricant, dough divider, pan oil

Where you'll see it

beet sugar/yeast processing, coatings on fruits/vegetables, capsules, confectionery, baked goods

What the research says

Known cancer-causing additive by inhalation. Causes birth defects if inhaled by mothers and testicular tumors in the fetus. Eye irritant. May inhibit absorption of digestive fats.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • Notes: FDA tolerances vary by application; 30 ppm in dried fruits, 0.095% in meat, etc.

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): A known cancer-causing additive by inhalation. Causes birth defects if inhaled by mothers and also causes testicular tumors in the fetus