Thiabendazole E233
fungicide — Primarily synthetic.
2-(4-Thiazolyl)benzimidazole
CAS: 148-79-8
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Thiabendazole?
Thiabendazole is a systemic fungicide and antiparasitic compound authorized in several countries for post-harvest treatment of fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus and bananas. It penetrates the fruit skin and inhibits fumarate reductase, preventing mold growth during storage and transport. JECFA set an ADI of 0.1 mg/kg body weight. The EU does not authorize thiabendazole as a food additive (E233 status: not permitted), while it remains approved in the USA and some other countries as a post-harvest treatment with maximum residue limits.
? Did You Know?
In the EU, Thiabendazole has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Permitted in specific categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Industrially produced.