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E239 Hexamethylenetetramine – Food Preservative

E239 (hexamethylenetetramine) is an approved food additive used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould in certain foods.

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Things worth knowing about "E239"

E239 (hexamethylenetetramine) is an approved food additive used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould in certain foods.

What is E239?

E239, chemically known as hexamethylenetetramine (also called methenamine or urotropine), is a synthetically produced food additive classified as a preservative. It is produced through the reaction of formaldehyde and ammonia, and has the chemical formula (CH₂)₆N₄. Within the European Union, E239 is approved for use in only a very limited range of food applications.

Use in Food

In the EU, E239 is permitted exclusively for the preservation of Provolone cheese, a traditional Italian cheese variety, where it inhibits the growth of mould and unwanted bacteria on the cheese rind. It is applied as a surface treatment. In many other countries, the use of E239 in food is highly restricted or not permitted at all.

Mechanism of Action

Hexamethylenetetramine acts as a preservative by slowly releasing formaldehyde under acidic conditions. Formaldehyde is a reactive compound that damages the proteins and nucleic acids of microorganisms, thereby inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. This antimicrobial effect helps protect treated foods from spoilage.

Safety and Health Assessment

The safety of E239 in food is regularly evaluated by authorities such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Because E239 can release formaldehyde, health concerns exist regarding higher levels of exposure. Formaldehyde is considered potentially carcinogenic in larger quantities. Due to these concerns, the use of E239 in the EU is restricted to a single food product (Provolone cheese) and only for surface treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
High exposure to released formaldehyde can irritate mucous membranes.
Individuals with kidney disorders should consult a doctor regarding the consumption of products containing hexamethylenetetramine.

Regulation in the EU

According to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives, E239 is authorised in the EU exclusively for the surface treatment of Provolone cheese. The permitted quantity is governed by the principle of good manufacturing practice (GMP). Food manufacturers are required to declare E239 on the ingredients list, either by the name hexamethylenetetramine or by the E number E239.

Uses Outside the Food Industry

Beyond food preservation, hexamethylenetetramine is also used in medicine as a urinary tract agent (under the name methenamine) and in industry as a starting material for resins and plastics. It is also well known as a solid fuel tablet under the name hexamine, commonly used in camping stoves.

References

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of hexamethylene tetramine (E 239) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2014.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives.
Fennema's Food Chemistry, 5th Edition, CRC Press, 2017.

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