4-Hexylresorcinol (E 586)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: 4-Hexylresorcinol (E 586) is an anti-browning agent. It is used on crustaceans such as shrimp and prawns to prevent dark spots (melanosis) after harvest.

Also listed on labels as: 4-Hexylresorcinol, Hexylresorcinol, E586, INS 586

What do regulators say?

• EU: EFSA re-evaluated 4-hexylresorcinol (E 586) as a food additive in 2014 (doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3643, checked 2026-10-19).

Published research: what individual studies found

These are findings from individual published studies and food-safety agency opinions, credited to each paper. Each one is labeled by type of evidence. They do not change any verdict, evidence grade or score on this site.

Evidence type: Animal (Drosophila + mouse colitis)

• In fruit flies and mice with gut injury, 4-hexylresorcinol slowed gut-lining repair. Not shown in people.
• Source: Fan X et al., Cell Mol Life Sci, 2026 · doi:10.1007/s00018-026-06159-4

For information only, not medical advice. Studies are cited to their authors' published papers; the researchers aren't affiliated with and don't endorse Let Me Scan That or any product. A study link doesn't mean an ingredient causes harm. Report an error

Related guides

• Food Preservatives, Antioxidants and Acids: A Family Guide
• Sulfites

Sources

1. EFSA ANS Panel, Re-evaluation of 4-hexylresorcinol (E 586), EFSA J, 2014. Link

This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.