Ethoxyquin's main ingredient is 6-ethoxy-1,2-dihydro-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline, and it is primarily synthesized chemically. It is commonly used as a preservative in animal feed to prevent fats from becoming rancid, and as an antioxidant to protect the color of fruits like apples and pears after harvest. [1]
Ethoxyquin is produced through a chemical reaction involving quinoline, ethyl alcohol, and acetone, using specific catalysts under controlled conditions of temperature and pressure, after which it undergoes distillation and purification to obtain the final product. [2]
Ethoxyquin functions primarily as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals, which prevents the oxidation of fats and other compounds; this helps to maintain the quality and nutritional value of animal feed, and prevent discoloration in fruits. [3]
Ethoxyquin is applied in the preservation of animal feed, especially fish meal and pet food, to prevent rancidity and maintain palatability. It is also used post-harvest on certain fruits, like apples and pears, to prevent scald, a surface discoloration that affects their marketability. [4]
Ethoxyquin is typically packaged in drums or containers that prevent air exposure and moisture contamination, and should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and incompatible substances to ensure its stability and efficacy. [5]
Citations:
- Rortvedt, T. S., "Ethoxyquin," National Pesticide Information Center, 2011, http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/ethoxyquin.html.
- EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP), "Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of ethoxyquin as feed additive for animal species," EFSA Journal 9(10):2431, 2011.
- Bunger, A. K., et al., "The antioxidant ethoxyquin induces oxidative stress and impairs mitochondrial function in cultured cells," Toxicology in Vitro 22(6):1449-1456, 2008.
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, "Pesticide residues in food - 2001," http://www.fao.org/3/y2793e/y2793e00.htm
- U.S. Department of Labor, "Ethoxyquin, Chemical Hazard Information," https://www.osha.gov/chemicaldata/287
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