Is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (processing aids).
CAS 94-36-0.
Other names: flour bleach
Is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | white flour, baked goods |
| CAS number | 94-36-0 |
What is Benzoyl peroxide (flour)?
Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is a bleaching agent used to whiten flour.
Why is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) used in food?
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
Is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) dangerous? Documented risks
Not approved as a flour treatment in the EU.
Common US products containing Benzoyl peroxide (flour)
How to avoid Benzoyl peroxide (flour): safer alternatives
Choose minimally processed and EU-imported foods, read labels for these additives, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag them.
Frequently asked questions about Benzoyl peroxide (flour)
Is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) banned in the EU?
Yes — Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
Is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) allowed in the US?
Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Why is Benzoyl peroxide (flour) a concern?
Independent reviews flag Benzoyl peroxide (flour) for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
How do I avoid Benzoyl peroxide (flour)?
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag Benzoyl peroxide (flour) instantly.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Benzoyl peroxide (flour) or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related processing aids
Avoiding banned food additives? Check your beauty shelf, too.
Sources
- Banned ingredients in other countries — Food Revolution Network
- EFSA food additives — EFSA
- FDA Food Additives — U.S. FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.