Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is classified by IARC as carcinogenic to humans. It is not permitted as a food additive.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Formaldehyde is a highly reactive preservative and disinfectant, classified as a human carcinogen and banned from food.
How it is used in food
It kills essentially everything, which is what made it attractive as a preservative.
Commonly found in- Hard cheeses
- Smoked fish
- Sugar syrups
Health and safety
A confirmed human carcinogen (IARC Group 1), linked to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukaemia. It is not permitted in food anywhere it has been assessed.
Banned as a food additive in the EU, the US and internationally. IARC placed it in Group 1 in 2004; its permitted uses today are industrial and laboratory, not dietary.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Not approved | Not approved for general food use or historically banned due to safety concerns. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Not approved | Not approved for general food use or historically banned due to safety concerns. |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E240
Worth knowing
Small amounts occur naturally in food — apples, pears and several marine fish contain it — which is why a trace detection is not the same as adulteration.
Conclusion
A highly toxic, carcinogenic chemical. Completely banned.
References
Is it in what you are buying?
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-08-05.
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