Antioxygen

​Antioxidants: Protection Against Oxidation

​1. Definition & Function

​Antioxidants are compounds that ​inhibit oxidation, preventing damage caused by ​free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).They work by:✅ ​Scavenging free radicals (chain-breaking antioxidants).✅ ​Chelating metal ions that catalyze oxidation (e.g., iron, copper).✅ ​Enhancing stability of food, fuels, plastics, and biological systems.

​2. Key Mechanisms

Mechanism	Example	Effect
​Free Radical Scavenging	Vitamin E, BHA, BHT	Terminates lipid peroxidation chain reactions.
​Oxygen Consumption	Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)	Reduces available oxygen in food packaging.
​Metal Chelation	EDTA, Citric acid	Prevents metal-catalyzed oxidation.

​3. Types of Antioxidants

Type	Examples	Applications
​Natural Antioxidants	Vitamin E, Polyphenols (e.g., flavonoids), Carotenoids	Food preservation, cosmetics, supplements.
​Synthetic Antioxidants	BHA, BHT, TBHQ	Processed foods, oils, petrochemicals.
​Enzymatic Antioxidants	Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase	Biological systems (cellular protection).

​4. Applications

​Food IndustryPrevents ​rancidity in oils, snacks, and meat products.Extends ​shelf life (e.g., BHA in cereals, rosemary extract in natural foods).​Plastics & FuelsProtects ​polymers and lubricants from oxidative degradation.​Cosmetics & PharmaceuticalsStabilizes ​creams, serums, and drugs against oxidation.​Health Supplements​Vitamin C, E, and CoQ10 combat oxidative stress in the body.

​5. Safety & Regulations

​FDA/EFSA-Approved Antioxidants: BHA, BHT, Tocopherols (subject to usage limits).​Restrictions: Some synthetic antioxidants (e.g., TBHQ) have maximum permitted levels.​Natural Alternatives: Growing demand for ​plant-derived antioxidants (e.g., rosemary extract, green tea polyphenols).

​6. Benefits of Proper Use

​For Food Manufacturers:Longer shelf life → ​Reduced food waste & economic losses.​For Consumers:Improved ​food safety & nutritional quality.

Declaration: The products displayed on this website are intended exclusively for industrial applications or scientific research. They are not intended for medical, pharmaceutical, or food use. In accordance with applicable laws and regulations, purchasing organizations must hold valid qualifications and approvals.