Alpha-(p-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl)-omega-hydroxypoly(oxyethylene)(1 Mol)

Alpha-(p-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl)-omega-hydroxypoly(oxyethylene), identified by CAS Number 2315-67-5, is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant belonging to the polyethoxylated alkylphenol family. The compound consists of a hydrophobic alkylphenyl group (para-substituted with a bulky tetramethylbutyl chain) linked to a polyoxyethylene (PEO) chain. This chemical architecture creates a molecule with both water-repelling and water-attracting properties, making it useful in various industrial applications. The specific designation "(1 Mol)" indicates a single molar unit of ethylene oxide in the polymer chain.

While this particular compound appears in regulatory listings, its documented use in food products is not clearly established in FDA databases or published literature. Non-ionic surfactants in this chemical family are typically employed as emulsifiers, wetting agents, or solubilizers in industrial and cosmetic applications rather than food. The lack of a defined food function in regulatory records suggests this compound may be used in food contact materials, processing aids, or other indirect food applications rather than as a direct food additive. Additional research into specific product applications would be necessary to clarify its actual use patterns.

The FDA has recorded zero adverse events associated with this additive and zero recalls involving this substance. However, it is important to note that the absence of reported adverse events does not necessarily indicate comprehensive safety testing specific to food use. The compound has not received GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status from the FDA, which means it has not been formally evaluated and approved for direct food consumption. This classification reflects the lack of established safety documentation rather than identified hazards.

As a polyethoxylated alkylphenol, this compound belongs to a chemical class that has undergone varying levels of safety scrutiny. Related non-ionic surfactants have been studied for potential toxicity, but substance-specific data for this particular compound is limited in publicly available scientific literature. Environmental considerations regarding persistence and biodegradability of alkylphenol ethoxylates have been noted in some regulatory contexts, though these concerns primarily relate to environmental exposure rather than direct food safety.

This additive is not listed as GRAS by the FDA, indicating it has not received blanket approval for direct food use. It does not appear on standard lists of approved food additives in the United States. Regulatory status in other regions such as the European Union is unclear from available public databases. The compound's presence in FDA records may reflect its use in food contact materials or processing applications rather than direct food additive approval. Manufacturers considering use of this substance would need to pursue formal FDA approval through established pathways or document its use as a processing aid if applicable.

Published scientific literature specifically addressing the safety and toxicity of this exact compound (CAS 2315-67-5) is not readily available in major research databases. Broader toxicological studies on related polyethoxylated alkylphenols exist, but these cannot be directly extrapolated to this specific substance without additional research. The lack of documented adverse events and recalls provides limited reassurance without corresponding safety documentation. Further investigation and testing would be needed to establish a comprehensive safety profile for food-related applications. Any organization considering use of this substance should contact the FDA to clarify regulatory requirements and necessary safety data.