Biphenyl
Also known as: Phenylbenzene, Diphenyl
Preservatives
Safety rating
Avoid
Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
Purpose and Function
Biphenyl is a synthetic preservative applied to the outer surface of citrus fruits to protect against fungal growth and spoilage during storage and transport — not intended for direct consumption.
Commonly found in
- —Citrus fruit peels (surface treatment)
- —Some food packaging materials
Key functions
- —Prevents fungal growth on fruit surfaces during storage
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- 01Can be toxic if ingested in significant amounts — consumers advised to peel treated fruit and avoid eating the peel
- 02Handling treated fruit may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions
- 03Banned or limited in some countries due to health risk concerns