Hexane (also known as n-hexane) is a colorless, transparent, highly volatile, flammable organic liquid with a petroleum-like odor. It is an aliphatic hydrocarbon that is a byproduct of the refining process of crude oil. It is insoluble in water and less dense than water, but its vapor is heavier than air. Hexane is highly reactive with certain chemicals, including liquid chlorine, concentrated oxygen, and sodium hypochlorite. It is a dangerous chemical that can cause acute and chronic health problems depending on exposure.

Hexane (hexane sds) is a common food additive, often used as an antioxidant and stabilizer in foods. During food production and storage, hexane prevents fats, oils and other nutrients in food from oxidizing in the air, thus inhibiting food spoilage.

At the same time, hexane can also be used as a food coloring agent to make food more bright. In baked goods, hexane is also often used as a stabilizer for frying oil, preventing it from discoloration under high temperature conditions.

Second, hexane common use range

Hexane, as a food additive, has been widely used in many foods, common ones include:

1. Cookies, cakes and other baked goods.

2. Vegetable oil, nut food.

3. Cooked meat products, such as ham, sausage, etc.

4. Seasonings, such as soy sauce, vinegar, etc.

5. Drinks, juices, etc.


Safety assessment of hexane

The safety of hexane has undergone numerous scientific evaluations and is currently considered a relatively safe food additive. Many countries and regions such as the European Union and the United States have strict food safety standards for the use of hexane.

However, although hexane is considered to be a relatively safe food additive, excessive use can still cause some harm to the human body. Therefore, when using hexane, it is necessary to strictly control the amount of addition to ensure that people eat food safety and health.


In summary, hexane, as a common food additive, can improve the stability and antioxidant properties of food, thereby preventing food spoilage and contamination. Although it is considered to be a relatively safe food additive, we still need to strictly control its use to ensure people's diet health and food safety.