E239 - Hexamethylene - tetramine

Hexamethylene tetramine is a preservative of synthetic origin obtained from the synthesis of formaldehyde and ammonium.

It is an additive used in food to protect them from the action of fungi, contained for example in caviar, cheese (a typical example is provolone), anchovies, fish preserves etc.

Hexamethylene tetramine, if present in high concentrations, can have significant side effects, but thanks to the flavor it gives to foods, fortunately, excessive doses are never reached.

ADI DOSE: 0.15 mg per kg of body weight.