E number
E numbers ("E" stands for "Europe") are codes for substances used as food additives for use within the European Union (EU)[1][2] and European Free Trade Association (EFTA).[3] Commonly found on food labels, their safety assessment and approval are the responsibility of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).[4]
Having a single unified list for food additives was first agreed upon in 1962 with food colouring. In 1964, the directives for preservatives were added, in 1970 antioxidants were added, in 1974 emulsifiers, stabilisers, thickeners and gelling agents were added as well.[5]
Numbering schemes
The numbering scheme follows that of the International Numbering System (INS) as determined by the Codex Alimentarius committee,[6] though only a subset of the INS additives are approved for use in the European Union as food additives. Outside the European continent plus Russia, E numbers are also encountered on food labelling in other jurisdictions, including the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand,[7] Malaysia, Hong Kong,[8] India and Israel. They are increasingly, though still rarely, found on North American packaging,[9] especially on imported European food products.
Colloquial use
In some European countries, "E number" is sometimes used informally as a pejorative term for artificial food additives, and products may promote themselves as "free of E numbers". This is incorrect, because many components of natural foods have assigned E numbers (and the number is a synonym for the chemical component), e.g. vitamin C (E300) and lycopene (E160d), found in carrots.
Classification by numeric range
E number range | Subranges | Description |
---|---|---|
100–199 (full list) Colours |
100–109 | yellows |
110–119 | oranges | |
120–129 | reds | |
130–139 | blues and violets | |
140–149 | greens | |
150–159 | browns and blacks | |
160–199 | gold and others | |
200–299 (full list) Preservatives |
200–209 | sorbates |
210–219 | benzoates | |
220–229 | sulfites | |
230–239 | phenols and formates (methanoates) | |
240–259 | nitrates | |
260–269 | acetates (ethanoates) | |
270–279 | lactates | |
280–289 | propionates (propanoates) | |
290–299 | others | |
300–399 (full list) Antioxidants and acidity regulators |
300–305 | ascorbates (vitamin C) |
306–309 | Tocopherol (vitamin E) | |
310–319 | gallates and erythorbates | |
320–329 | lactates | |
330–339 | citrates and tartrates | |
340–349 | phosphates | |
350–359 | malates and adipates | |
360–369 | succinates and fumarates | |
370–399 | others | |
400–499 (full list) Thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers |
400–409 | alginates |
410–419 | natural gums | |
420–429 | other natural agents | |
430–439 | polyoxyethene compounds | |
440–449 | natural emulsifiers | |
450–459 | phosphates | |
460–469 | cellulose compounds | |
470–489 | fatty acids and compounds | |
490–499 | others | |
500–599 (full list) pH regulators and anti-caking agents |
500–509 | mineral acids and bases |
510–519 | chlorides and sulfates | |
520–529 | sulfates and hydroxides | |
530–549 | alkali metal compounds | |
550–559 | silicates | |
570–579 | stearates and gluconates | |
580–599 | others | |
600–699 (full list) Flavour enhancers |
620–629 | glutamates and guanylates |
630–639 | inosinates | |
640–649 | others | |
700–799 (full list) Antibiotics |
700–713 | |
900–999 (full list) Glazing agents, gases and sweeteners |
900–909 | waxes |
910–919 | synthetic glazes | |
920–929 | improving agents | |
930–949 | packaging gases | |
950–969 | sweeteners | |
990–999 | foaming agents | |
1100–1599 (full list) Additional additives |
1100–1599 | New chemicals that do not fall into standard classification schemes |
NB: Not all examples of a class fall into the given numeric range. Moreover, many chemicals, particularly in the E400–499 range, have a variety of purposes.
Full list
The list shows all components that have or had an E-number assigned, even those no longer allowed in the EU. For an overview of currently allowed additives see information provided by the Food Standards Agency of the UK.
E100–E199 (colours)
Code | Name(s) | Colour | Status |
E100 | Curcumin (from turmeric) | Yellow-orange | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E101 | Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), formerly called lactoflavin | Yellow-orange | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E101a | Riboflavin-5'-Phosphate | Yellow-orange | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E102 | Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow 5) | Yellow | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E103 | Alkannin[12] | Red-brown | |
E104 | Quinoline Yellow WS | Dull or greenish yellow | Approved in the EU.[10] Undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK. |
E105 | Fast Yellow AB | Yellow | |
E106 | Riboflavin-5-Sodium Phosphate | Yellow | |
E107 | Yellow 2G | Yellow | |
E110 | Sunset Yellow FCF (Orange Yellow S, FD&C Yellow 6) | Yellow-orange | Approved in the EU.[10] Banned in Norway.[13] Products in the EU require warnings and its use is being phased out. Approved in the US.[11] |
E111 | Orange GGN | Orange | |
E120 | Cochineal, Carminic acid, Carmine (Natural Red 4) | Crimson | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E121 | Citrus Red 2 | Dark red | Approved in the United States only for use in colouring the skin of oranges.[14] |
E122 | Carmoisine (azorubine) | Red to maroon | Approved in the EU.[10] Undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK. Currently banned in Canada, Japan, Norway, USA . EU currently evaluating health risks. |
E123 | Amaranth (FD&C Red 2) | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] Banned in the United States.[15] |
E124 | Ponceau 4R (Cochineal Red A, Brilliant Scarlet 4R) | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E125 | Ponceau SX, Scarlet GN | Red | Only permitted for externally applied drugs and cosmetics in the US.[16][17][18] |
E126 | Ponceau 6R | Red | |
E127 | Erythrosine (FD&C Red 3) | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US except for lake variant.[11] |
E128 | Red 2G | Red or pink | |
E129 | Allura Red AC (FD&C Red 40) | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] Banned in Switzerland. Undergoing a voluntary phase out in the UK. Approved in the US.[11] |
E130 | Indanthrene blue RS | Blue | |
E131 | Patent Blue V | Dark blue | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E132 | Indigo carmine (indigotine, FD&C Blue 2) | Indigo | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E133 | Brilliant Blue FCF (FD&C Blue 1) | Reddish blue | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E140 | Chlorophylls and Chlorophyllins: (i) Chlorophylls (ii) Chlorophyllins | Green | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E141 | Copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins (i) Copper complexes of chlorophylls (ii) Copper complexes of chlorophyllins | Green | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E142 | Green S | Green | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E143 | Fast Green FCF (FD&C Green 3) | Green | Approved in the US. Banned in the EU. |
E150a | Plain caramel | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E150b | Caustic sulfite caramel | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E150c | Ammonia caramel | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E150d | Sulfite ammonia caramel | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E151 | Black PN, Brilliant Black BN | Black | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E152 | Carbon black (hydrocarbon) | Black | |
E153 | Vegetable carbon | Black | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E154 | Brown FK (kipper brown) | Brown | Approved in the EU for dyeing kippers only, however appears to no longer be used.[19] |
E155 | Brown HT (chocolate brown HT) | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E160a | Alpha-carotene, Beta-carotene, Gamma-carotene | Yellow-orange to brown | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E160b | Annatto, bixin, norbixin | Orange | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E160c | Paprika oleoresin: (i) capsanthin, (ii) capsorubin | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E160d | Lycopene | Bright to deep red | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E160e | Beta-apo-8'-carotenal (C 30) | Orange-red to yellow | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E160f | Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenic acid (C 30) | Orange-red to yellow | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E161a | Flavoxanthin | Golden-yellow and brownish | |
E161b | Lutein | Orange-red to yellow | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E161c | Cryptoxanthin | Orange-red | |
E161d | Rubixanthin | Orange-red | |
E161e | Violaxanthin | Orange | |
E161f | Rhodoxanthin | Purple | |
E161g | Canthaxanthin | Violet | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E161h | Zeaxanthin | Orange-red | |
E161i | Citranaxanthin | Deep violet | |
E161j | Astaxanthin | Red | |
E162 | Beetroot Red, Betanin | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E163 | Anthocyanins | pH dependent(Red, green and purple ranges) | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E164 | Saffron | Orange-red[colour?] | Approved in the US.[11] |
E170 | Calcium carbonate, Chalk | White | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E171 | Titanium dioxide | White | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US.[11] |
E172 | Iron oxides and iron hydroxides | Brown | Approved in the EU.[10] Approved in the US for sausage casings.[11] |
E173 | Aluminium | Silver to grey | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E174 | Silver | Silver | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E175 | Gold | Gold | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E180 | Pigment Rubine, Lithol Rubine BK | Red | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E181 | Tannin | Brown | |
E182 | Orcein, Orchil | Purple |
E200–E299 (preservatives)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E200 | Sorbic acid | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E201 | Sodium sorbate | preservative | |
E202 | Potassium sorbate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E203 | Calcium sorbate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E209 | Heptyl p-hydroxybenzoate | preservative | |
E210 | Benzoic acid | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E211 | Sodium benzoate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E212 | Potassium benzoate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E213 | Calcium benzoate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E214 | Ethylparaben (ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E215 | Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E216 | Propylparaben (propyl para-hydroxybenzoate) | preservative | |
E217 | Sodium propyl para-hydroxybenzoate | preservative | |
E218 | Methylparaben (methyl para-hydroxybenzoate) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E219 | Sodium methyl para-hydroxybenzoate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E220 | Sulfur dioxide | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E221 | Sodium sulfite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E222 | Sodium bisulfite (sodium hydrogen sulfite) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E223 | Sodium metabisulfite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E224 | Potassium metabisulfite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E225 | Potassium sulfite | preservative | |
E226 | Calcium sulfite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E227 | Calcium hydrogen sulfite (preservative) | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E228 | Potassium hydrogen sulfite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E230 | Biphenyl, diphenyl | preservative | Not approved in the EU. |
E231 | Orthophenyl phenol | preservative | Not approved in the EU. |
E232 | Sodium orthophenyl phenol | preservative | Not approved in the EU. |
E233 | Thiabendazole | preservative | Not approved in the EU. |
E234 | Nisin | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E235 | Natamycin, Pimaracin | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E236 | Formic acid | preservative | |
E237 | Sodium formate | preservative | |
E238 | Calcium formate | preservative | |
E239 | Hexamine (hexamethylene tetramine) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E240 | Formaldehyde | preservative | |
E242 | Dimethyl dicarbonate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E249 | Potassium nitrite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E250 | Sodium nitrite | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E251 | Sodium nitrate (Chile saltpetre) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E252 | Potassium nitrate (Saltpetre) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E260 | Acetic acid (preservative) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E261 | Potassium acetate (preservative) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E262 | Sodium acetates (i) Sodium acetate (ii) Sodium diacetate (sodium hydrogen acetate) | preservative, acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E263 | Calcium acetate (preservative) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E264 | Ammonium acetate | preservative | Approved in Australia and New Zealand[21] |
E265 | Dehydroacetic acid | preservative | |
E266 | Sodium dehydroacetate | preservative | |
E270 | Lactic acid (preservative) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E280 | Propionic acid | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E281 | Sodium propionate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E282 | Calcium propionate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E283 | Potassium propionate | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E284 | Boric acid | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E285 | Sodium tetraborate (borax) | preservative | Approved in the EU.[10] |
E290 | Carbon dioxide | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E296 | Malic acid (acid) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E297 | Fumaric acid | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E300–E399 (antioxidants, acidity regulators)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E300 | Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E301 | Sodium ascorbate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E302 | Calcium ascorbate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E303 | Potassium ascorbate | antioxidant | |
E304 | Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid (Ascorbyl palmitate) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E305 | Ascorbyl stearate | antioxidant | |
E306 | Tocopherols (Vitamin E, natural) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E307 | Alpha-Tocopherol (synthetic) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E308 | Gamma-Tocopherol (synthetic) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E309 | Delta-Tocopherol (synthetic) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E310 | Propyl gallate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E311 | Octyl gallate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E312 | Dodecyl gallate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E313 | Ethyl gallate | antioxidant | |
E314 | Guaiac resin | antioxidant | |
E315 | Erythorbic acid | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E316 | Sodium erythorbate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E317 | Erythorbin acid | antioxidant | |
E318 | Sodium erythorbin | antioxidant | |
E319 | tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E320 | Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E321 | Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E322 | Lecithin | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E323 | Anoxomer | antioxidant | |
E324 | Ethoxyquin | antioxidant | |
E325 | Sodium lactate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E326 | Potassium lactate (antioxidant) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E327 | Calcium lactate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E328 | Ammonium lactate | acidity regulator | |
E329 | Magnesium lactate | acidity regulator | |
E330 | Citric acid | acid, acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E331 | Sodium citrates (i) Monosodium citrate (ii) Disodium citrate (iii) Sodium citrate (trisodium citrate) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E332 | Potassium citrates (i) Monopotassium citrate (ii) Potassium citrate (tripotassium citrate) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E333 | Calcium citrates (i) Monocalcium citrate (ii) Dicalcium citrate (iii) Calcium citrate (tricalcium citrate) | acidity regulator, firming agent, sequestrant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E334 | Tartaric acid (L(+)-) | (acid) | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E335 | Sodium tartrates (i) Monosodium tartrate (ii), Disodium tartrate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E336 | Potassium tartrates (i) Monopotassium tartrate (cream of tartar) (ii) Dipotassium tartrate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E337 | Sodium potassium tartrate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E338 | Phosphoric acid | acid | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E339 | Sodium phosphates (i) Monosodium phosphate (ii) Disodium phosphate (iii) Trisodium phosphate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E340 | Potassium phosphates (i) Monopotassium phosphate (ii) Dipotassium phosphate (iii) Tripotassium phosphate | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E341 | Calcium phosphates (i) Monocalcium phosphate (ii) Dicalcium phosphate (iii) Tricalcium phosphate | anti-caking agent, firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E342 | Ammonium phosphates: (i) monoammonium phosphate (ii) diammonium phosphate | ||
E343 | Magnesium phosphates (i) monomagnesium phosphate (ii) Dimagnesium phosphate | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives. |
E344 | Lecithin citrate | acidity regulator | |
E345 | Magnesium citrate | acidity regulator | |
E349 | Ammonium malate | acidity regulator | |
E350 | Sodium malates (i) Sodium malate (ii) Sodium hydrogen malate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E351 | Potassium malate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E352 | Calcium malates (i) Calcium malate (ii) Calcium hydrogen malate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E353 | Metatartaric acid | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E354 | Calcium tartrate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E355 | Adipic acid | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E356 | Sodium adipate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E357 | Potassium adipate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E359 | Ammonium adipate | acidity regulator | |
E363 | Succinic acid | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E365 | Monosodium fumarate | acidity regulator | |
E366 | Potassium fumarate | acidity regulator | |
E367 | Calcium fumarate | acidity regulator | |
E368 | Ammonium fumarate | acidity regulator | |
E370 | 1,4-Heptonolactone | acidity regulator | |
E375 | Niacin | acidity regulator | |
E380 | Triammonium citrate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E381 | Ammonium ferric citrate | acidity regulator | |
E383 | Calcium glycerylphosphate | acidity regulator | |
E384 | Isopropyl citrate | acidity regulator | |
E385 | Calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetate, (Calcium disodium EDTA) | sequestrant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E386 | Disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetate (Disodium EDTA) | sequestrant | |
E387 | Oxystearin | stabiliser | |
E388 | Thiodipropionic acid | ||
E389 | Dilauryl thiodipropionate | ||
E390 | Distearyl thiodipropionate | ||
E391 | Phytic acid | ||
E392 | Extracts of rosemary | Approved in 2010[24] | |
E399 | Calcium lactobionate |
E400–E499 (thickeners, stabilisers, emulsifiers)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E400 | Alginic acid (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E401 | Sodium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E402 | Potassium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E403 | Ammonium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E404 | Calcium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E405 | Propane-1,2-diol alginate (Propylene glycol alginate) (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E406 | Agar (thickener) (gelling agent) | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E407 | Carrageenan (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E407a | Processed eucheuma seaweed (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E408 | Bakers yeast glycan | ||
E409 | Arabinogalactan | ||
E410 | Locust bean gum (Carob gum) (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E411 | Oat gum (thickener) | stabiliser | |
E412 | Guar gum (thickener) | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E413 | Tragacanth (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E414 | Acacia gum (gum arabic) (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E415 | Xanthan gum (thickener) | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E416 | Karaya gum (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E417 | Tara gum (thickener) | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E418 | Gellan gum (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E419 | Gum ghatti (thickener) (stabiliser) | emulsifier | |
E420 | Sorbitol (i) Sorbitol (ii) Sorbitol syrup (emulsifier) (sweetener) | humectant | Approved in the EU.[25] |
E421 | Mannitol (anti-caking agent) | sweetener | Approved in the EU.[25] |
E422 | Glycerol (emulsifier) | sweetener | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E424 | Curdlan | gelling agent | |
E425 | Konjac (i) Konjac gum (ii) Konjac glucomannane | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] May not be used in confectionery owing to choking risk. |
E426 | Soybean hemicellulose | Approved in the EU.[23] | |
E427 | Cassia gum | Approved in 2010[24] | |
E429 | Peptones | ||
E430 | Polyoxyethene (8) stearate (emulsifier) | stabiliser | |
E431 | Polyoxyethene (40) stearate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E432 | Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E433 | Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monooleate (polysorbate 80) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E434 | Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monopalmitate (polysorbate 40) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E435 | Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monostearate (polysorbate 60) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E436 | Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan tristearate (polysorbate 65) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E440 | Pectins (i) pectin (ii) amidated pectin | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E441 | Gelatine (emulsifier) | gelling agent | |
E442 | Ammonium phosphatides | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E443 | Brominated vegetable oil | emulsifier | |
E444 | Sucrose acetate isobutyrate | emulsifier | |
E445 | Glycerol esters of wood rosins | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E446 | Succistearin | ||
E450 | Diphosphates (i) Disodium diphosphate (ii) Trisodium diphosphate (iii) Tetrasodium diphosphate (iv) Dipotassium diphosphate (v) Tetrapotassium diphosphate (vi) Dicalcium diphosphate (vii) Calcium dihydrogen diphosphate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E451 | Triphosphates (i) Sodium triphosphate (pentasodium triphosphate) (ii) Pentapotassium triphosphate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E452 | Polyphosphates (i) Sodium polyphosphates (ii) Potassium polyphosphates (iii) Sodium calcium polyphosphate (iv) Calcium polyphosphates (v) Ammonium polyphosphate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E459 | Beta-cyclodextrin | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E460 | Cellulose (i) Microcrystalline cellulose (ii) Powdered cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E461 | Methyl cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E462 | Ethyl cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E463 | Hydroxypropyl cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E464 | Hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E465 | Ethyl methyl cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E466 | Carboxymethyl cellulose, Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E467 | Ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose | ||
E468 | Crosslinked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Croscarmellose) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives |
E469 | Enzymically hydrolysed carboxymethylcellulose | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E470a | Sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids (emulsifier) | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E470b | Magnesium salts of fatty acids (emulsifier) | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E471 | Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl distearate) | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472a | Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472b | Lactic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472c | Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472d | Tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472e | Mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472f | Mixed acetic and tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E472g | Succinylated monoglycerides | emulsifier | |
E473 | Sucrose esters of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E474 | Sucroglycerides | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E475 | Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E476 | Polyglycerol polyricinoleate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E477 | Propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids, propylene glycol esters of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E478 | Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1 | emulsifier | |
E479b | Thermally oxidized soya bean oil interacted with mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E480 | Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate | emulsifier | |
E481 | Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E482 | Calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E483 | Stearyl tartrate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E484 | Stearyl citrate | emulsifier | |
E485 | Sodium stearoyl fumarate | emulsifier | |
E486 | Calcium stearoyl fumarate | emulsifier | |
E487 | Sodium laurylsulfate | emulsifier | |
E488 | Ethoxylated Mono- and Di-Glycerides | emulsifier | |
E489 | Methyl glucoside-coconut oil ester | emulsifier | |
E490 | Propane-1,2-diol | ||
E491 | Sorbitan monostearate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E492 | Sorbitan tristearate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E493 | Sorbitan monolaurate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E494 | Sorbitan monooleate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E495 | Sorbitan monopalmitate | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E496 | Sorbitan trioleate | emulsifier | |
E497 | Polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene polymers | ||
E498 | Partial polyglycerol esters of polycondensed fatty acids of castor oil | ||
E499 | Stigmasterol-rich plant sterols | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E500–E599 (acidity regulators, anti-caking agents)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E500 | Sodium carbonates: (i) Sodium carbonate (ii) Sodium bicarbonate (Sodium hydrogen carbonate) (iii) Sodium sesquicarbonate (acidity regulator) | raising agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E501 | Potassium carbonates: (i) Potassium carbonate (ii) Potassium bicarbonate (Potassium hydrogen carbonate) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E503 | Ammonium carbonates: (i) Ammonium carbonate (ii) Ammonium bicarbonate (Ammonium hydrogen carbonate) | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E504 | Magnesium carbonates: (i) Magnesium carbonate (ii) Magnesium bicarbonate Magnesium hydrogen carbonate | acidity regulator, anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E505 | Ferrous carbonate | acidity regulator | |
E507 | Hydrochloric acid | acid | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E508 | Potassium chloride (gelling agent) | seasoning | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E509 | Calcium chloride (sequestrant) | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E510 | Ammonium chloride, ammonia solution (acidity regulator) | improving agent | |
E511 | Magnesium chloride | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E512 | Stannous chloride | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E513 | Sulfuric acid | acid | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E514 | Sodium sulfates (i) Sodium sulfate (ii) sodium bisulfate | acid | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E515 | Potassium sulfates (i) potassium sulfate (ii) potassium bisulfate | Approved in the EU.[20] | |
E516 | Calcium sulfate | Approved in the EU.[20] | |
E517 | Ammonium sulfate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E518 | Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts), (acidity regulator) | firming agent | |
E519 | Copper(II) sulfate | preservative | |
E520 | Aluminium sulfate | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E521 | Aluminium sodium sulfate | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E522 | Aluminium potassium sulfate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E523 | Aluminium ammonium sulfate | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E524 | Sodium hydroxide | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E525 | Potassium hydroxide | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E526 | Calcium hydroxide (acidity regulator) | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E527 | Ammonium hydroxide | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E528 | Magnesium hydroxide | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E529 | Calcium oxide (acidity regulator) | improving agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E530 | Magnesium oxide (acidity regulator) | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E535 | Sodium ferrocyanide (acidity regulator) | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E536 | Potassium ferrocyanide | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E537 | Ferrous hexacyanomanganate | anti-caking agent | |
E538 | Calcium ferrocyanide | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E539 | Sodium thiosulfate | antioxidant | |
E540 | Dicalcium diphosphate (acidity regulator) | emulsifier | |
E541 | Sodium aluminium phosphate (i) Acidic (ii) Basic | emulsifier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E542 | Bone phosphate (Essentiale Calcium Phosphate, Tribasic) | anti-caking agent | |
E543 | Calcium sodium polyphosphate | emulsifier | |
E544 | Calcium polyphosphate | emulsifier | |
E545 | Ammonium polyphosphate | emulsifier | |
E550 | Sodium Silicates (i) Sodium silicate (ii) Sodium metasilicate | anti-caking agent | |
E551 | Silicon dioxide (Silica) | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E552 | Calcium silicate | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E553a | (i) Magnesium silicate (ii) Magnesium trisilicate | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E553b | Talc | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E554 | Sodium aluminosilicate (sodium aluminium silicate) | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E555 | Potassium aluminium silicate | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E556 | Calcium aluminosilicate (calcium aluminium silicate) | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E557 | Zinc silicate | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E558 | Bentonite | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E559 | Aluminium silicate (Kaolin) | anti-caking agent | removed from list per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012 |
E560 | Potassium silicate | anti-caking agent | |
E561 | Vermiculite | ||
E562 | Sepiolite | ||
E563 | Sepiolitic clay | ||
E565 | Lignosulfonates | ||
E566 | Natrolite-phonolite | ||
E570 | Fatty acids | anti-caking agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E572 | Magnesium stearate, calcium stearate (emulsifier) | anti-caking agent | |
E574 | Gluconic acid | acidity regulator | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E575 | Glucono delta-lactone (acidity regulator) | sequestrant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E576 | Sodium gluconate | sequestrant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E577 | Potassium gluconate | sequestrant | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E578 | Calcium gluconate | firming agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E579 | Ferrous gluconate | food colouring | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E580 | Magnesium gluconate | ||
E585 | Ferrous lactate | food colouring | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E586 | 4-Hexylresorcinol | antioxidant | Approved in the EU.[22] |
E598 | Synthetic calcium aluminates | ||
E599 | Perlite |
E600–E699 (flavour enhancer)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E620 | Glutamic acid | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E621 | Monosodium glutamate (MSG) | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E622 | Monopotassium glutamate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E623 | Calcium diglutamate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E624 | Monoammonium glutamate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E625 | Magnesium diglutamate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E626 | Guanylic acid | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E627 | Disodium guanylate, sodium guanylate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E628 | Dipotassium guanylate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E629 | Calcium guanylate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E630 | Inosinic acid | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E631 | Disodium inosinate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E632 | Dipotassium inosinate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E633 | Calcium inosinate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E634 | Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E635 | Disodium 5'-ribonucleotides | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E636 | Maltol | flavour enhancer | |
E637 | Ethyl maltol | flavour enhancer | |
E640 | Glycine and its sodium salt | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E650 | Zinc acetate | flavour enhancer | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E700–E799 (antibiotics)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E701 | Tetracyclines | antibiotic | |
E702 | Chlortetracycline | antibiotic | |
E703 | Oxytetracycline | antibiotic | |
E704 | Oleandomycin | antibiotic | |
E705 | Penicillin G potassium | antibiotic | |
E706 | Penicillin G sodium | antibiotic | |
E707 | Penicillin G procaine | antibiotic | |
E708 | Penicillin G benzathine | antibiotic | |
E710 | Spiramycins | antibiotic | |
E711 | Virginiamycins | antibiotic | |
E712 | Flavomycin | antibiotic | |
E713 | Tylosin | antibiotic | |
E714 | Monensin A | antibiotic | |
E715 | Avoparcin | antibiotic | |
E716 | Salinomycin | antibiotic | |
E717 | Avilamycin | antibiotic |
E900–E999 (glazing agents, gases and sweeteners)
E1000–E1599 (additional additives)
Code | Name(s) | Purpose | Status |
E1000 | Cholic acid | emulsifier | |
E1001 | Choline salts | emulsifier | |
E1100 | Amylase | stabiliser, flavour enhancer | |
E1101 | Proteases ((i)Protease, (ii)Papain, (iii)Bromelain, (iv)Ficin) | stabiliser, flavour enhancer | |
E1102 | Glucose oxidase | antioxidant | |
E1103 | Invertase | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[23] |
E1104 | Lipases | ||
E1105 | Lysozyme | preservative | |
E1200 | Polydextrose | stabiliser, thickening agent, humectant, carrier | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1201 | Polyvinylpyrrolidone | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1202 | Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (carrier) | stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1203 | Polyvinyl alcohol | Approved in 2010[24] | |
E1204 | Pullulan | Approved in the EU.[20] | |
E1400 | Dextrin (Dextrins, roasted starch white and yellow) (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1401 | Modified starch ((Acid-treated starch) stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1402 | Alkaline modified starch (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1403 | Bleached starch (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1404 | Oxidized starch (emulsifier) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1405 | Enzyme treated starch | ||
E1410 | Monostarch phosphate (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1411 | Distarch glycerol (thickening agent) | emulsifier | |
E1412 | Distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetasphosphate; esterified with phosphorus oxychloride (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1413 | Phosphated distarch phosphate (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1414 | Acetylated distarch phosphate (emulsifier) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1420 | Starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1421 | Starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1422 | Acetylated distarch adipate (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1423 | Acetylated distarch glycerol | thickening agent | |
E1430 | Distarch glycerine (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1440 | Hydroxy propyl starch (emulsifier) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1441 | Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerine (stabiliser) | thickening agent | |
E1442 | Hydroxy propyl distarch phosphate (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1443 | Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerol | ||
E1450 | Starch sodium octenyl succinate (emulsifier) (stabiliser) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1451 | Acetylated oxidised starch (emulsifier) | thickening agent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1452 | Starch aluminium octenyl succinate | Approved in the EU.[20] | |
E1501 | Benzylated hydrocarbons | ||
E1502 | Butane-1, 3-diol | ||
E1503 | Castor oil | resolving agent | |
E1504 | Ethyl acetate | flavour solvent | |
E1505 | Triethyl citrate | foam stabiliser | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1510 | Ethanol | ||
E1516 | Glyceryl monoacetate | flavour solvent | |
E1517 | Glyceryl diacetate or diacetin | flavour solvent | |
E1518 | Glyceryl triacetate or triacetin | humectant and flavour solvent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1519 | Benzyl alcohol | ||
E1520 | Propylene glycol | humectant and flavour solvent | Approved in the EU.[20] |
E1521 | Polyethylene glycol 8000[28] | Approved in 2010[24] | |
E1525 | Hydroxyethyl cellulose | thickening agent |
References
- "Food labels". Live Well. NHS Choices. Archived from the original on 26 May 2019. Retrieved 26 December 2012.
- "European Parliament and Council Directive No 95/2/EC|of 20 February 1995|on food additives other than colours and sweeteners" (PDF). EUR-Lex | Access to European Union law. 15 August 2006. Archived from the original on 2 August 2018.
- Matthew Snelson. "Explainer: what are E numbers and should you avoid them in your diet?". The Conversation. Archived from the original on 26 April 2019. Retrieved 18 November 2017.
- "Frequently Asked Questions | Why Food Additives". Food Additives and Ingredients Association UK & Ireland- Making life taste better. Archived from the original on 1 June 2019. Retrieved 6 March 2010.
- Dr David Jukes. "Food Additives in the European Union". Foodlaw-Reading | The University of Reading, UK. Archived from the original on 26 April 2019.
- Codex Alimentarius. "Class Names and the International Numbering System for Food Additives (Ref: CAC/GL #36 publ. 1989, revised 2009, amended 2011)" (PDF). Retrieved 15 December 2011.
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand Archived 6 April 2011 at the Wayback Machine, website
- https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/food_leg_lgfa.html
- See also "Food Additives", Food and Drug Administration website
- "Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers". United Kingdom: Food Standards Agency. 2010. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- "Summary of Color Additives for Use in United States in Foods, Drugs, Cosmetics, and Medical Devices". United States Food and Drug Administration.
- Additives Archived 6 April 2011 at the Wayback Machine, Food Standards Australia New Zealand
- "Food additives". CBC News. 29 September 2008. Archived from the original on 9 September 2013.
- 21 CFR 74.302
- "Death of a Dye". TIME magazine. 2 February 1976. Retrieved 19 December 2019.
- 21 CFR 81.10
- 21 CFR 81.30
- 21 CFR 82.304
- Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
- Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code "Standard 1.2.4 - Labelling of ingredients". Retrieved 27 October 2011.
- Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
- Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
- New additives approved for use, Food Standards Agency, Friday 26 November 2010
- Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
- "E700-E799 (antibiotics)". Sigma-Aldrich. Retrieved 17 December 2018.
- Stevia EU approval
- New Zealand Food Safety Authority. "Identifying Food Additives" (PDF). Retrieved 6 December 2017.
External links
- Codex Alimentarius, the international foods standards, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1963
- See also their document "Class Names and the International Numbering System for Food Additives" (Ref: CAC/GL #36 publ. 1989, revised 2009, amended 2011)
- Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) publications at the World Health Organization (WHO)
- Food Additive Index, JECFA, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- E-codes and ingredients search engine with details/suggestions for Muslims
- Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers
- Food Additives in the European Union
- Food Additives, Food Safety, website of the European Union. Includes (a) Lists of authorised food additives (b) Food additives database
- The Food Additives and Ingredients Association, FAIA website, UK.