Rosemary extract (E392) in main Chinese foods and associated health risk

Abstract

This study assessed the application of rosemary extract (E392) in foods and estimated dietary exposure in China, using a stepwise approach, encompassing theoretical maximum use, enterprise-reported usage, and product-level monitoring. Exposure assessments combined national dietary survey data, regulatory limits, industry reports, and surveillance findings. Under the theoretical maximum scenario, estimated daily intake (EDI) approached the temporary acceptable daily intake (tADI) of 0.3 mg/kg bw/day, with P95 values exceeding it 1.5-1.9 times, indicating potential risk for high-intake subgroups. In contrast, enterprise-reported and monitoring scenarios yielded EDI values well below the tADI, suggesting negligible risk under typical conditions. Marinated meats, animal fats and compound seasonings were the primary contributors to exposure. Rosemary components were also detected in non-authorised food categories, implying possible carry-over effects. Overall, current use patterns appear safe, but improved additive traceability and targeted surveillance are needed to refine exposure assessments and support enforcement of regulation.