Learn Glossary solvent processing aid

Toluene

Level 5High concernIn Winter's Dictionary

Toluene is a solvent processing aid — Water-purifying additive and food-processing solvent

Also: Toluol, Methyl Benzene

What it does

Water-purifying additive and food-processing solvent

Where you'll see it

food-processing compounds, cheese

What the research says

Can cause mild anemia; narcotic in high concentrations; can cause liver damage; brain/nervous system effects

Regulatory status

  • Notes: Found at 959 of 1,591 National Priority List sites

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): can cause mild anemia if ingested, and it is narcotic in high concentrations