The facts: Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is banned in 1 country/region (including European Union), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Benzoyl peroxide (flour) on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: white flour, baked goods.
TL;DR: Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | white flour, baked goods |
Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is a bleaching agent used to whiten flour.
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
Not approved as a flour treatment in the EU.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Benzoyl peroxide (flour) with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Benzoyl peroxide (flour) is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in white flour, baked goods. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Benzoyl peroxide (flour).
Choose minimally processed and EU-imported foods, read labels for these additives, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag them. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
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