Is Peracetic acid poultry wash Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (processing aids).
CAS 79-21-0.
Other names: PAA, peroxyacetic acid
Is Peracetic acid poultry wash banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | chicken, fresh-cut produce |
| CAS number | 79-21-0 |
What is Peracetic acid poultry wash?
Peracetic acid poultry wash is an antimicrobial chemical wash applied to US poultry and produce.
Why is Peracetic acid poultry wash used in food?
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
Is Peracetic acid poultry wash dangerous? Documented risks
Not permitted as a carcass decontaminant in the EU.
Common US products containing Peracetic acid poultry wash
- chicken
- fresh-cut produce
How to avoid Peracetic acid poultry wash: 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 Peracetic acid poultry wash
Is Peracetic acid poultry wash banned in the EU?
Yes — Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
Is Peracetic acid poultry wash allowed in the US?
Peracetic acid poultry wash is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Why is Peracetic acid poultry wash a concern?
Independent reviews flag Peracetic acid poultry wash for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
How do I avoid Peracetic acid poultry wash?
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag Peracetic acid poultry wash instantly.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Peracetic acid poultry wash 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.