Boric acid

Definition

Boric acid is a colourless salt used in detergents, pesticides, antiseptics, and water softeners. Some Asian cultures use it in food preparation and as a preservative, and it is permitted for use in the EU.

Health considerations

Ingestion of boric acid can cause nausea, fever, vomiting, and headache in small quantities. Significant intake can lead to kidney failure and death. In male dogs fed boric acid for three months at high levels, testes weight decreased and sperm development was impaired.

Keep in mind

Some food agencies prohibit use of boric acid in food, declaring it an unacceptable toxic substance.

May be found in

Caviar, noodles, fish balls, fish cake, dumplings

References

NSW Food Authority
EFSA

Alternative Spellings and Names

E284