Delta-Tocopherol
The short version
δ-Tocopherol — the highest-antioxidant-activity tocopherol form, with minimal vitamin-E activity.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Naturally present in soybean oil — the dominant tocopherol of the soybean-deodorizer-distillate concentrate that feeds the mixed-tocopherol industry. Also produced by chemical synthesis.
How it's used
Used as an antioxidant in vegetable oils and snack frying fats where the higher chemical antioxidant activity (vs α-tocopherol) outweighs the lower vitamin-E activity. Common in oil-blending formulations targeting long shelf life rather than vitamin-E claims.
Safety profile
ADI not specified — considered safe. Like other tocopherols, an endogenous metabolite consumed at much higher levels through diet than as an additive.
Physical & chemical properties
Pale yellow viscous oil. Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and ethanol. Slightly more oxidation-stable than α-tocopherol.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally without restrictive limits.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.