antioxidant INS 586

4-Hexylresorcinol E586

preservative, color retention agent — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

4-Hexylresorcinol (C12H18O2)

CAS: 136-77-6

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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 4-Hexylresorcinol?

4-Hexylresorcinol is an antimicrobial phenol used specifically in crustaceans (shrimp, lobster, crab) to prevent melanosis (black spot/blackening) that develops after harvest from enzyme activity. It inhibits polyphenol oxidase, the enzyme responsible for melanosis. JECFA established an ADI of 0–0.6 mg/kg body weight. EFSA reviewed 4-hexylresorcinol in 2016 and confirmed the ADI. The EU authorizes it for treatment of crustaceans only, with a maximum level of 2 mg/kg in the edible portion. Also used as an antiseptic in pharmaceutical throat lozenges.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, 4-Hexylresorcinol is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies (typically 1-6 mg/kg for crustaceans) mg/kg

Restricted to use on fresh and frozen crustaceans to prevent melanosis (black spot). Specific maximum residue limits apply.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Food additive (not GRAS)

Approved for use on fresh shrimp to prevent melanosis, maximum 6 ppm.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Used on seafood with maximum residue limits.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0-0.5 mg/kg bw/day

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

0.5 mg/kg bw/day

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by alkylation of resorcinol with hexyl halide or similar organic synthesis routes. The resulting 4-hexylresorcinol is purified for food or pharmaceutical use.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Skin lightening agent, anti-aging ingredient (inhibits melanin production).

Medical

Topical antiseptic, throat lozenges (historical use), wound care products.

Industrial

Limited industrial use outside of food and pharmaceuticals.

Household

Some throat lozenges and antiseptic products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 4-Hexylresorcinol (E586)?

4-Hexylresorcinol (E586) is a antioxidant used in food products. It is preservative, color retention agent and synthetic. 4-Hexylresorcinol does not occur naturally. It is synthetically manufactured for use as an antioxidant and preservative, primarily in seafood.

What is the ADI for 4-Hexylresorcinol?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for 4-Hexylresorcinol is 0-0.5 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain 4-Hexylresorcinol?

4-Hexylresorcinol is used in various food categories including Fresh fish and fresh cephalopods, Fresh molluscs and fresh crustaceans. It is used as a antioxidant in these products.

Is 4-Hexylresorcinol the same as 4-Hexyl-1,3-benzenediol?

Yes, 4-Hexylresorcinol is also known as 4-Hexyl-1,3-benzenediol, Hexylresorcinol. These are different names for the same substance.