E number

E number
E numbers are number codes for food additives that have been assessed for use within the European Union (the "E" prefix stands for "Europe").[1] They are commonly found on food labels throughout the European Union.[2] Safety assessment and approval are the responsibility of the European Food Safety Authority.[3] The numbering scheme follows that of the International Numbering System (INS) as determined by the Codex Alimentarius committee[4] though only a subset of the INS additives are approved for use in the European Union. E numbers are also encountered on food labelling in other jurisdictions, including the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, Australia, New Zealand and Israel. They are increasingly, though still rarely, found on North American packaging, especially in Canada on imported European products. In casual language in the UK and Ireland, "E number" is used as a pejorative term for artificial food additives, and products may promote themselves as "free of E numbers" even though most of the natural ingredients contain components that also have an E number such as vitamin C (E300) or lycopene (E160d). Because vitamin C has an E number (actually several E numbers, 300-305, for different chemical forms of the vitamin), it is impossible to live on a diet without any substances that have E numbers. "Free of E numbers" then simply means that pure forms of the substances are not intentionally added, even though identical substances certainly exist naturally in many foods.

Classification by numeric range

100199 Colours 100109 110119 120129 130139 140149 150159 160199 200299 Preservatives 200209 210219 220229 230239 240259 260269 270279 280289 290299 yellows (see the full list) orange reds blues & violets greens browns & blacks gold and others sorbates benzoates sulphites phenols & formates (methanoates) nitrates acetates (ethanoates) lactates propionates (propanoates) others

E number

2
300399 Antioxidants & acidity regulators 300305 306309 310319 320329 330339 340349 350359 360369 370399 400499 400409 Thickeners, stabilisers & emulsifiers 410419 420429 430439 440449 450459 460469 470489 490499 500599 500509 pH regulators & anti-caking agents 510519 520529 530549 550559 570579 580599 600699 Flavour enhancers 620629 630639 640649 700799 Antibiotics 900999 Miscellaneous 700713 ascorbates (vitamin C) Tocopherol (vitamin E) gallates & erythorbates lactates citrates & tartrates phosphates malates & adipates succinates & fumarates others alginates natural gums other natural agents polyoxyethene compounds natural emulsifiers phosphates cellulose compounds fatty acids & compounds others mineral acids & bases chlorides & sulphates sulphates & hydroxides alkali metal compounds silicates stearates & gluconates others glutamates inosinates others

900909 910919 920929 930949 950969 990999

waxes synthetic glazes improving agents packaging gases sweeteners foaming agents

11001599 Additional chemicals

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 E400499 range, have a variety of purposes.

E number

Full list
E100E199 (colours)
Code E100 E101 Name(s) Curcumin, turmeric Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), formerly called lactoflavin Color Yellow-orange Yellow-orange Yellow-orange Lemon yellow Red-brown Dull or greenish yellow [5] Approved in the EU Undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK. Status Approved in the EU Approved in the EU Approved in the EU Approved in the EU [5] [5] [5] [5] Approved in the US. [6] Approved in the US. Approved in the US. [6] [6]

E101a Riboflavin-5'-Phosphate E102 E103 E104 Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow 5) Alkannin [7]

Quinoline Yellow WS

E105 E106 E107 E110

Fast Yellow AB Riboflavin-5-Sodium Phosphate Yellow 2G Sunset Yellow FCF (Orange Yellow S, FD&C Yellow 6)

Yellow Yellow Yellow Yellow-orange [5] Approved in the EU. Banned in Norway. Products in the EU require warnings and its use is being [6] phased-out. Approved in the US.

E111 E120 E121

Orange GGN Cochineal, Carminic acid, Carmine (Natural Red 4) Citrus Red 2

Orange Crimson Dark red Approved in the EU. [5] Approved in the US. [6]

Approved in the United States only for use in coloring [8] the skin of oranges. [5] Approved in the EU. Undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK. Currently banned in Canada, Japan, Norway, USA . EU currently evaluating health risks. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [5] [5]

E122

Carmoisine, Azorubine

Red to maroon

E123 E124 E125 E126 E127 E128 E129

Amaranth (FD&C Red 2) Ponceau 4R (Cochineal Red A, Brilliant Scarlet 4R) Ponceau SX, Scarlet GN Ponceau 6R Erythrosine (FD&C Red 3) Red 2G Allura Red AC (FD&C Red 40)

Dark red Red Red Red Red Red Red

Approved in the EU. Forbidden

[5]

Approved in the US.

[6]

[5] Approved in the EU. Banned in Switzerland. Undergoing a voluntary phase out in the UK. [6] Approved in the US.

E130 E131 E132 E133

Indanthrene blue RS Patent Blue V Indigo carmine (indigotine, FD&C Blue 2) Brilliant Blue FCF (FD&C Blue 1)

Blue Dark blue Indigo Reddish blue Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [5] [5] [5] Approved in the US. Approved in the US. [6] [6]

E number
[5]

4
Chlorophylls and Chlorophyllins: (i) Chlorophylls (ii) Chlorophyllins Copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins (i) Copper complexes of chlorophylls (ii) Copper complexes of chlorophyllins Green S Fast Green FCF (FD&C Green 3) Green

E140

Approved in the EU.

E141

Green

Approved in the EU.

[5]

Approved in the US.

[6]

E142 E143

Green Sea green Brown Brown Brown Brown Black Black Black Brown Brown Yellow-orange to brown Orange Red Bright to deep red Orange-red to yellow Orange-red to yellow Golden-yellow Orange-red to yellow Orange-red Orange-red Orange Purple Violet Orange-red Deep violet Red Red

Approved in the EU.

[5]

E150a Plain caramel E150b Caustic sulphite caramel E150c Ammonia caramel E150d Sulphite ammonia caramel E151 E152 E153 E154 E155 Black PN, Brilliant Black BN Black 7984 food colouring Carbon black, Vegetable carbon Brown FK (kipper brown) Brown HT (chocolate brown HT)

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the US.

[5] [5] [5]

Approved in the US. Approved in the US. Approved in the US.

[6] [6] [6]

[6] [5]

Approved in the EU.

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] Approved in the US. Approved in the US. Approved in the US. Approved in the US. [6] [6] [6] [6]

E160a Alpha-carotene, Beta-carotene, Gamma-carotene E160b Annatto, bixin, norbixin E160c Paprika oleoresin, Capsanthin, capsorubin E160d Lycopene E160e Beta-apo-8'-carotenal (C 30) E160f Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenic acid (C 30) E161a Flavoxanthin E161b Lutein E161c Cryptoxanthin E161d Rubixanthin E161e Violaxanthin E161f Rhodoxanthin E161g Canthaxanthin E161h Zeaxanthin E161i Citranaxanthin E161j Astaxanthin E162 E163 Beetroot Red, Betanin Anthocyanins

Approved in the EU.

[5]

Approved in the EU.

[5]

Approved in the US.

[6]

Approved in the EU.

[5]

Approved in the US.

[6]

[5] pH dependent(Red, Approved in the EU. green and purple ranges) Orange-red[color?] Approved in the US. [6]

E164

Saffron

E number
[5] [5] [5] Approved in the US. [6]

5
Calcium carbonate, Chalk Titanium dioxide Iron oxides and iron hydroxides White White Brown

E170 E171 E172

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [6] sausage casings. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

Approved in the US for

E173 E174 E175 E180 E181 E182

Aluminium Silver Gold Pigment Rubine, Lithol Rubine BK Tannin Orcein, Orchil

Silver to grey Silver Gold Red Brown Purple

[5] [5] [5] [5]

E200E299 (preservatives)
Code Name(s) E200 Sorbic acid Purpose preservative Status Approved in the [5] EU.

E201 Sodium sorbate E202 Potassium sorbate

preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E203 Calcium sorbate

preservative

E209 Heptyl p-hydroxybenzoate E210 Benzoic acid

preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E211 Sodium benzoate

preservative

E212 Potassium benzoate

preservative

E213 Calcium benzoate

preservative

E214 Ethylparaben (ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate)

preservative

E215 Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate

preservative

E216 Propylparaben (propyl para-hydroxybenzoate) E217 Sodium propyl para-hydroxybenzoate E218 Methylparaben (methyl para-hydroxybenzoate)

preservative preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E219 Sodium methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

preservative

E number

6
preservative

E220 Sulphur dioxide

Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E221 Sodium sulphite

preservative

E222 Sodium bisulphite (sodium hydrogen sulphite)

preservative

E223 Sodium metabisulphite

preservative

E224 Potassium metabisulphite

preservative

E225 Potassium sulphite E226 Calcium sulphite

preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E227 Calcium hydrogen sulphite (preservative)

firming agent

E228 Potassium hydrogen sulphite

preservative

E230 Biphenyl, diphenyl

preservative

E231 Orthophenyl phenol

preservative

E232 Sodium orthophenyl phenol

preservative

E233 Thiabendazole E234 Nisin

preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E235 Natamycin, Pimaracin

preservative

E236 Formic acid E237 Sodium formate E238 Calcium formate E239 Hexamine (hexamethylene tetramine)

preservative preservative preservative preservative Approved in the [5] EU. Forbidden Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU.

E240 Formaldehyde E242 Dimethyl dicarbonate

preservative preservative

E249 Potassium nitrite

preservative

E250 Sodium nitrite

preservative

E number

7
preservative

E251 Sodium nitrate (Chile saltpeter)

Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E252 Potassium nitrate (Saltpetre)

preservative

E260 Acetic acid (preservative)

acidity regulator

E261 Potassium acetate (preservative)

acidity regulator

E262 Sodium acetates (i) Sodium acetate (ii) Sodium diacetate (sodium hydrogen acetate) E263 Calcium acetate (preservative)

preservative, acidity regulator acidity regulator

E264 Ammonium acetate E265 Dehydroacetic acid E266 Sodium dehydroacetate E270 Lactic acid (preservative) (acid)

preservative preservative preservative antioxidant Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [5] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E280 Propionic acid

preservative

E281 Sodium propionate

preservative

E282 Calcium propionate

preservative

E283 Potassium propionate

preservative

E284 Boric acid

preservative

E285 Sodium tetraborate (borax)

preservative

E290 Carbon dioxide

acidity regulator

E296 Malic acid (acid)

acidity regulator

E297 Fumaric acid

acidity regulator

E number

E300E399 (antioxidants, acidity regulators)

Code Name(s) E300 Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) E301 Sodium ascorbate E302 Calcium ascorbate E303 Potassium ascorbate E304 Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid (Ascorbyl palmitate) E305 Ascorbyl stearate E306 Tocopherols (natural) E307 Alpha-tocopherol (synthetic) E308 Gamma-tocopherol (synthetic) E309 Delta-tocopherol (synthetic) E310 Propyl gallate E311 Octyl gallate E312 Dodecyl gallate E313 Ethyl gallate E314 Guaiac resin E315 Erythorbic acid E316 Sodium erythorbate E317 Erythorbin acid E318 Sodium erythorbin E319 tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) E320 Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) E321 Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) E322 Lecithin E323 Anoxomer E324 Ethoxyquin E325 Sodium lactate E326 Potassium lactate (antioxidant) E327 Calcium lactate E328 Ammonium lactate E329 Magnesium lactate E330 Citric acid Purpose antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant Approved in the EU. [10] Status Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [10] [10] [10]

antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant antioxidant emulsifier antioxidant antioxidant acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acid, acidity regulator Approved in the EU. [9] Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [9] [9] [9] Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [10] [10] [10] [11] Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [10] [10] Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [10] [10] [10] [10] [10] [10] [10]

E number
[9]

E331 Sodium citrates (i) Monosodium citrate (ii) Disodium acidity regulator citrate (iii) Sodium citrate (trisodium citrate) E332 Potassium citrates (i) Monopotassium citrate (ii) Potassium citrate (tripotassium citrate) E333 Calcium citrates (i) Monocalcium citrate (ii) Dicalcium citrate (iii) Calcium citrate (tricalcium citrate) E334 Tartaric acid (L(+)-) E335 Sodium tartrates (i) Monosodium tartrate (ii), Disodium tartrate E336 Potassium tartrates (i) Monopotassium tartrate (cream of tartar) (ii) Dipotassium tartrate E337 Sodium potassium tartrate E338 Orthophosphoric acid E339 Sodium phosphates (i) Monosodium phosphate (ii) Disodium phosphate (iii) Trisodium phosphate E340 Potassium phosphates (i) Monopotassium phosphate (ii) Dipotassium phosphate (iii) Tripotassium phosphate E341 Calcium phosphates (i) Monocalcium phosphate (ii) Dicalcium phosphate (iii) Tricalcium phosphate E342 Ammonium phosphates: (i) monoammonium phosphate (ii) diammonium phosphate E343 Magnesium phosphates (i) monomagnesium phosphate (ii) Dimagnesium phosphate anti-caking agent acidity regulator

Approved in the EU.

Approved in the EU.

[9]

acidity regulator, firming agent, sequestrant (acid) acidity regulator

Approved in the EU.

[9]

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [9]

acidity regulator

Approved in the EU.

[9]

acidity regulator acid antioxidant

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [9] [9]

antioxidant

Approved in the EU.

[9]

anti-caking agent, firming agent

Approved in the EU.

[9]

[9] Approved in the EU. This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives.

E344 Lecitin citrate E345 Magnesium citrate E349 Ammonium malate E350 Sodium malates (i) Sodium malate (ii) Sodium hydrogen malate E351 Potassium malate E352 Calcium malates (i) Calcium malate (ii) Calcium hydrogen malate E353 Metatartaric acid E354 Calcium tartrate E355 Adipic acid E356 Sodium adipate E357 Potassium adipate E359 Ammonium adipate E363 Succinic acid E365 Sodium fumarate

acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator Approved in the EU. [9]

acidity regulator acidity regulator

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [9]

emulsifier emulsifier acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [9] [9] [9] [9]

Approved in the EU.

[9]

E number

10
acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator colour retention agent acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator acidity regulator sequestrant Approved in the EU. [9] Approved in the EU. [9]

E366 Potassium fumarate E367 Calcium fumarate E368 Ammonium fumarate E370 1,4-Heptonolactone E375 Niacin (nicotinic acid), Nicotinamide E380 Triammonium citrate E381 Ammonium ferric citrate E383 Calcium glycerylphosphate E384 Isopropyl citrate E385 Calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetate, (Calcium disodium EDTA) E386 Disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetate (Disodium EDTA) E387 Oxystearin E388 Thiodipropionic acid E389 Dilauryl thiodipropionate E390 Distearyl thiodipropionate E391 Phytic acid E392 Extracts of rosemary E399 Calcium lactobionate

sequestrant

stabiliser

Approved in 2010

[12]

E400E499 (thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers)

Code E400 E401 E402 E403 E404 E405 E406 E407 Name(s) Alginic acid (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Sodium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Potassium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Ammonium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) Calcium alginate (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Propane-1,2-diol alginate (Propylene glycol alginate) (thickener) (stabiliser) Agar (thickener) (gelling agent) Carrageenan (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Purpose emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier stabiliser emulsifier emulsifier Status Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E407a Processed eucheuma seaweed (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) E408 E409 E410 E411 Bakers yeast glycan Arabinogalactan Locust bean gum (Carob gum) (thickener) (stabiliser) (gelling agent) Oat gum (thickener)

emulsifier stabiliser

Approved in the EU.

[11]

E number
[11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

11
Guar gum (thickener) Tragacanth (thickener) (stabiliser) Acacia gum (gum arabic) (thickener) (stabiliser) Xanthan gum (thickener) Karaya gum (thickener) (stabiliser) Tara gum (thickener) Gellan gum (thickener) (stabiliser) Gum ghatti (thickener) (stabiliser) Sorbitol (i) Sorbitol (ii) Sorbitol syrup (emulsifier) (sweetener) Mannitol (anti-caking agent) Glycerol (emulsifier) Curdlan Konjac (i) Konjac gum (ii) Konjac glucomannane emulsifier [11] Approved in the EU. May not be used in confectionery owing to choking risk. Approved in the EU. Approved in 2010 [11] stabiliser emulsifier emulsifier stabiliser emulsifier stabiliser emulsifier emulsifier humectant sweetener sweetener Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [13] [13] [9]

E412 E413 E414 E415 E416 E417 E418 E419 E420 E421 E422 E424 E425

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

E426 E427 E429 E430 E431 E432 E433 E434 E435 E436 E440 E441

Soybean hemicellulose Cassia gum Peptones Polyoxyethene (8) stearate (emulsifier) Polyoxyethene (40) stearate Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20) Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monooleate (polysorbate 80) Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monopalmitate (polysorbate 40) Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan monostearate (polysorbate 60) Polyoxyethene (20) sorbitan tristearate (polysorbate 65) Pectins (i) pectin (ii) amidated pectin Gelatine (emulsifier) stabiliser emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier gelling agent emulsifier

[12]

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E442 E443 E444 E445 E446 E450

Ammonium phosphatides Brominated vegetable oil Sucrose acetate isobutyrate Glycerol esters of wood rosins Succistearin Diphosphates (i) Disodium diphosphate (ii) Trisodium diphosphate (iii) Tetrasodium diphosphate (iv) Dipotassium diphosphate (v) Tetrapotassium diphosphate (vi) Dicalcium diphosphate (vii) Calcium dihydrogen diphosphate

Approved in the EU.

[11]

emulsifier emulsifier

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[11] [11]

emulsifier

Approved in the EU.

[9]

E number
[9]

12
Triphosphates (i) Sodium triphosphate (pentasodium triphosphate) (ii) Pentapotassium triphosphate Polyphosphates (i) Sodium polyphosphates (ii) Potassium polyphosphates (iii) Sodium calcium polyphosphate (iv) Calcium polyphosphates (v) Ammonium Polyphosphate Beta-cyclodextrin Cellulose (i) Microcrystalline cellulose (ii) Powdered cellulose Methyl cellulose Ethyl cellulose Hydroxypropyl cellulose Hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose, = hypromellose Ethyl methyl cellulose Carboxymethyl cellulose, Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose Ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose Crosslinked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Croscarmellose) emulsifier [11] Approved in the EU. This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [11] [11] emulsifier

E451

Approved in the EU.

E452

emulsifier

Approved in the EU.

[9]

E459 E460 E461 E462 E463 E464 E465 E466 E467 E468

emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[9] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E469

Enzymically hydrolysed carboxymethylcellulose

emulsifier anti-caking agent anti-caking agent emulsifier

E470a Sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids (emulsifier)

E470b Magnesium salts of fatty acids (emulsifier)

Approved in the EU.

[11]

E471

Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (glyceryl monostearate, glyceryl distearate)

Approved in the EU.

[11]

E472a Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids E472b Lactic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids E472c Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids E472d Tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids

emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E472e Mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids emulsifier E472f Mixed acetic and tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids E472g Succinylated monoglycerides E473 E474 E475 E476 E477 E478 Sucrose esters of fatty acids Sucroglycerides Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids Polyglycerol polyricinoleate Propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids, propylene glycol esters of fatty acids Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1 emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E number
[11]

13
emulsifier

E479b Thermally oxidized soya bean oil interacted with mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids E480 E481 E482 E483 E484 E485 E486 E487 E488 E489 E490 E491 E492 E493 E494 E495 E496 E497 E498 Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate Calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate Stearyl tartrate Stearyl citrate Sodium stearoyl fumarate Calcium stearoyl fumarate Sodium laurylsulphate Ethoxylated Mono- and Di-Glycerides Methyl glucoside-coconut oil ester Propane-1,2-diol Sorbitan monostearate Sorbitan tristearate Sorbitan monolaurate Sorbitan monooleate Sorbitan monopalmitate Sorbitan trioleate Polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene polymers Partial polyglycerol esters of polycondensed fatty acids of castor oil

Approved in the EU.

emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [11] [11] [11]

emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

[11] [11] [11] [11] [11]

E500E599 (acidity regulators, anti-caking agents)

Code E500 Name(s) Sodium carbonates (i) Sodium carbonate (ii) Sodium bicarbonate (Sodium hydrogen carbonate) (iii) Sodium sesquicarbonate (acidity regulator) Potassium carbonates (i) Potassium carbonate (ii) Potassium bicarbonate (Potassium hydrogen carbonate) Ammonium carbonates (i) Ammonium carbonate (ii) Ammonium bicarbonate (Ammonium hydrogen carbonate) Magnesium carbonates (i) Magnesium carbonate (ii) Magnesium bicarbonate Magnesium hydrogen carbonate Ferrous carbonate Hydrochloric acid Purpose raising agent Status Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E501

acidity regulator

E503

acidity regulator

E504

acidity regulator, anti-caking agent acidity regulator acid

E505 E507

Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E508

Potassium chloride (gelling agent)

seasoning

E number

14
Calcium chloride (sequestrant) firming agent

E509

Approved in the [9] EU.

E510 E511

Ammonium chloride, ammonia solution (acidity regulator) Magnesium chloride

improving agent firming agent Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. improving agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E512

Stannous chloride

antioxidant

E513

Sulphuric acid

acid

E514

Sodium sulphates (i) Sodium sulphate (ii)

acid

E515

Potassium Sulphates (i) Potassium Sulphate (ii)

E516

Calcium sulphate

E517

Ammonium sulphate

E518 E519 E520

Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts), (acidity regulator) Copper(II) sulphate Aluminium sulphate

firming agent preservative firming agent Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E521

Aluminium sodium sulphate

firming agent

E522

Aluminium potassium sulphate

acidity regulator

E523

Aluminium ammonium sulphate

acidity regulator

E524

Sodium hydroxide

acidity regulator

E525

Potassium hydroxide

acidity regulator

E526

Calcium hydroxide (acidity regulator)

firming agent

E527

Ammonium hydroxide

acidity regulator

E528

Magnesium hydroxide

acidity regulator

E529

Calcium oxide (acidity regulator)

improving agent

E530

Magnesium oxide (acidity regulator)

anti-caking agent

E number

15
Sodium ferrocyanide (acidity regulator) anti-caking agent

E535

Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E536

Potassium ferrocyanide

anti-caking agent

E537 E538

Ferrous hexacyanomanganate Calcium ferrocyanide

anti-caking agent anti-caking agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E539 E540 E541

Sodium thiosulphate Dicalcium diphosphate (acidity regulator) Sodium aluminium phosphate (i) Acidic (ii) Basic

antioxidant emulsifier emulsifier Approved in the [9] EU.

E542 E543 E544 E545 E550 E551

Bone phosphate (Essentiale Calcium Phosphate, Tribasic) Calcium sodium polyphosphate Calcium polyphosphate Ammonium polyphosphate Sodium Silicates (i) Sodium silicate (ii) Sodium metasilicate Silicon dioxide (Silica)

anti-caking agent emulsifier emulsifier emulsifier anti-caking agent anti-caking agent Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E552

Calcium silicate

anti-caking agent

E553a (i) Magnesium silicate (ii) Magnesium trisilicate

anti-caking agent

E553b Talc

anti-caking agent

E554

Sodium aluminosilicate (sodium aluminium silicate)

anti-caking agent

E555

Potassium aluminium silicate

anti-caking agent

E556

Calcium aluminosilicate (calcium aluminium silicate)

anti-caking agent

E557 E558

Zinc silicate Bentonite

anti-caking agent anti-caking agent Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E559

Aluminium silicate (Kaolin)

anti-caking agent

E560 E561 E562 E563 E565

Potassium silicate Vermiculite Sepiolite Sepiolitic clay 4-Hexylresorcinol

anti-caking agent

Approved in the [10] EU.

E number

16
Natrolite-phonolite Stearic acid (Fatty acid) anti-caking agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E566 E570

E572 E574

Magnesium stearate, calcium stearate (emulsifier) Gluconic acid

anti-caking agent acidity regulator Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E575

Glucono delta-lactone (acidity regulator)

sequestrant

E576

Sodium gluconate

sequestrant

E577

Potassium gluconate

sequestrant

E578

Calcium gluconate

firming agent

E579

Ferrous gluconate

food colouring

E580 E585

Magnesium gluconate Ferrous lactate food colouring Approved in the [9] EU.

E586 E598 E599

4-Hexylresorcinol Synthetic calcium aluminates Perlite

antioxidant

E600E699 (flavour enhancers)

Code E620 E621 E622 E623 E624 E625 E626 E627 E628 E629 E630 E631 Name(s) Glutamic acid Monosodium glutamate(MSG) Monopotassium glutamate Calcium diglutamate Monoammonium glutamate Magnesium diglutamate Guanylic acid Disodium guanylate, sodium guanylate Dipotassium guanylate Calcium guanylate Inosinic acid Disodium inosinate Purpose flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer Status Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9]

E number
[9] [9] [9] [9]

17
Dipotassium inosinate Calcium inosinate Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides Disodium 5'-ribonucleotides Maltol Ethyl maltol Glycine and its sodium salt L-leucine Lysine hydrochloride Zinc acetate flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer flavour enhancer Approved in the EU. [9] Approved in the EU. [9]

E632 E633 E634 E635 E636 E637 E640 E641 E642 E650

Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU.

E700E799 (antibiotics)
Code E700 E701 E702 E703 E704 E705 E706 E707 E708 E710 E711 E712 E713 E714 E715 E716 E717 Name(s) Bacitracin Tetracyclines Chlortetracycline Oxytetracycline Oleandomycin Penicillin-G-potassium Penicillin-G-sodium Penicillin-G-procaine Penicillin-G-benzathyne Spiramycins Virginiamicins Flavophospholipol Tylosin Monensin Avoparcin Salinomycin Avilamycin Purpose Status

E900E999 (miscellaneous)

E number

18

Code E900 E901 E902 E903 E904 E905

Name(s) Dimethyl polysiloxane (anti-foaming agent) Beeswax , white and yellow Candelilla wax Carnauba wax Shellac Paraffins

Purpose anti-caking agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent

Status Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9]

E905a Mineral oil E905b Petrolatum E905c Petroleum wax (i)Microcrystalline wax (ii) Paraffin wax E906 E907 E908 E909 E910 E911 E912 E913 E914 E915 E916 E917 E918 E919 E920 E921 E922 E923 E924 Gum benzoic Crystalline wax Rice bran wax Spermaceti wax Wax esters Methyl esters of fatty acids Montan acid esters Lanolin, sheep wool grease Oxidized polyethylene wax Esters of colophony Calcium iodate Potassium iodate Nitrogen oxides Nitrosyl chloride L-cysteine L-cystine Potassium persulphate Ammonium persulphate Potassium bromate

anti-foaming agent

glazing agent flavour enhancer glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent glazing agent Approved in the EU. [9] Approved in the EU. [9]

improving agent improving agent improving agent improving agent improving agent improving agent preservative, bleach, improving agent bleach improving agent improving agent bleach

Approved in the EU.

[9]

E924b Calcium bromate E925 Chlorine

E926

Chlorine dioxide (preservative)

E927a Azodicarbonamide E927b Carbamide (urea) E928 E929 Benzoyl peroxide (improving agent) Acetone peroxide

Approved in the EU.

[9]

E number

19
Calcium peroxide (improving agent) Argon Helium Dichlorodifluoromethane Nitrogen (packaging gas) Nitrous oxide bleach packaging gas packaging gas packaging gas propellant propellant propellant propellant propellant propellant propellant packaging gas packaging gas sweetener Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. [9] [9] Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Rarely used Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. Approved in the EU. [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9]

E930 E938 E939 E940 E941 E942

E943a Butane E943b Isobutane E944 E945 E946 E948 E949 E950 Propane Chloropentafluoroethane Octafluorocyclobutane Oxygen Hydrogen Acesulfame potassium

E951

Aspartame

sweetener

E952

Cyclamic acid and its sodium and calcium salts, also known as Cyclamate Isomalt, Isomaltitol

sweetener

E953

sweetener

E954

Saccharin and its sodium, potassium and calcium salts

sweetener

E955

Sucralose (Trichlorogalactosucrose)

sweetener

E956 E957

Alitame Thaumatin (sweetener)

sweetener flavour enhancer Approved in the [13] EU.

E958 E959

Glycyrrhizin (sweetener) Neohesperidine dihydrochalcone (sweetener)

flavour enhancer flavour enhancer Approved in the [13] EU.

E960 E961 E962

Stevioside Neotame Aspartame-acesulfame salt (sweetener)

sweetener sweetener stabiliser Approved in 2010 Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. [12]

E965

Maltitol (i) Maltitol (ii) Maltitol syrup (sweetener) (stabiliser)

humectant

E number

20
Lactitol sweetener

E966

Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the [13] EU. Approved in the EU. [9]

E967

Xylitol

sweetener

E968

Erythritol

humectant

E999

Quillaia extract

foaming agent

E1000E1599 (additional chemicals)

Code Name(s) Purpose emulsifier emulsifier stabiliser, flavour enhancer stabiliser, flavour enhancer antioxidant stabiliser Approved in the [11] EU. Status

E1000 Cholic acid E1001 Choline salts E1100 Amylase E1101 Proteases ((i)Protease, (ii)Papain, (iii)Bromelain, (iv)Ficin) E1102 Glucose oxidase E1103 Invertase

E1104 Lipases E1105 Lysozyme E1200 Polydextrose preservative stabiliser, thickening agent, humectant, carrier stabiliser Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in [12] 2010 Approved in the [9] EU. thickening agent thickening agent thickening agent thickening agent thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E1201 Polyvinylpyrrolidone

E1202 Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (carrier)

stabiliser

E1203 Polyvinyl alcohol

E1204 Pullulan

E1400 Dextrin (Dextrins, roasted starch white and yellow) (stabiliser) E1401 Modified starch ((Acid-treated starch) stabiliser) E1402 Alkaline modified starch (stabiliser) E1403 Bleached starch (stabiliser) E1404 Oxidized starch (emulsifier)

E1405 Enzyme treated starch E1410 Monostarch phosphate (stabiliser) thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E1411 Distarch glycerol (thickening agent)

emulsifier

E number

21
thickening agent

E1412 Distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetasphosphate; esterified with phosphorus oxychloride (stabiliser) E1413 Phosphated distarch phosphate (stabiliser)

Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

thickening agent

E1414 Acetylated distarch phosphate (emulsifier)

thickening agent

E1420 Starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride (stabiliser)

thickening agent

E1421 Starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate (stabiliser) E1422 Acetylated Distarch Adipate (stabiliser)

thickening agent thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E1423 Acetylated distarch glycerol E1430 Distarch glycerine (stabiliser) E1440 Hydroxy propyl starch (emulsifier)

thickening agent thickening agent thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E1441 Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerine (stabiliser) E1442 Hydroxy propyl distarch phosphate (stabiliser)

thickening agent thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU.

E1443 Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerol E1450 Starch sodium octenyl succinate (emulsifier) (stabiliser) thickening agent Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in the [9] EU.

E1451 Acetylated oxidised starch (emulsifier)

thickening agent

E1452 Starch aluminium octenyl succinate

E1501 Benzylated hydrocarbons E1502 Butane-1, 3-diol E1503 Castor oil E1504 Ethyl acetate E1505 Triethyl citrate resolving agent flavour solvent foam stabiliser Approved in the [9] EU.

E1510 Ethanol E1516 Glyceryl monoacetate E1517 Glyceryl diacetate or diacetin E1518 Glyceryl triacetate or triacetin flavour solvent flavour solvent humectant Approved in the [9] EU.

E1519 Benzyl alcohol E1520 Propylene glycol humectant Approved in the [9] EU. Approved in [12] 2010

E1521 Polyethylene glycol 8000 [14]

E number

22
thickening agent

E1525 Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Notes
[1] UK Food Standards Agency (http:/ / www. eatwell. gov. uk/ foodlabels/ understandingenumbers/ ) [2] European Directive 95/2/EC on food additives other than colours and sweeteners (http:/ / eur-lex. europa. eu/ LexUriServ/ LexUriServ. do?uri=CONSLEG:1995L0002:20060815:EN:PDF) [3] Food Additives and Ingredients Association (http:/ / www. faia. org. uk/ faq2_4. php), no date, Frequently Asked Questions, accessed 6 March 2010 [4] Codex Alimentarius. "Noms de Categorie et Systeme International de Numerotation des Additifs Alimentaires" (http:/ / www. codexalimentarius. net/ download/ standards/ 7/ cxg_036f. pdf). . Retrieved 2 April 2009. [5] Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ safereating/ chemsafe/ additivesbranch/ enumberlist), Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010 [6] Summary of Color Additives for Use in United States in Foods, Drugs, Cosmetics, and Medical Devices (http:/ / www. fda. gov/ ForIndustry/ ColorAdditives/ ColorAdditiveInventories/ ucm115641. htm), United States Food and Drug Administration [7] Additives (http:/ / www. foodstandards. gov. au/ _srcfiles/ Additives alpha. pdf), Food Standards Australia New Zealand [8] Code of Federal regulations Title 21 Part 74.302 (21 CFR 74.302) [9] Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ safereating/ chemsafe/ additivesbranch/ enumberlist#h_7), Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010 [10] Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ safereating/ chemsafe/ additivesbranch/ enumberlist#h_4), Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010 [11] Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ safereating/ chemsafe/ additivesbranch/ enumberlist#h_6), Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010 [12] New additives approved for use (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ news/ newsarchive/ 2010/ nov/ additives), Food Standards Agency, Friday 26 November 2010 [13] Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http:/ / www. food. gov. uk/ safereating/ chemsafe/ additivesbranch/ enumberlist#h_5), Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010 [14] New Zealand Food Safety Authority. "Identifying Food Additives" (http:/ / www. foodsmart. govt. nz/ elibrary/ food-additives. pdf). . Retrieved 16 January 2010.

External links
Codex Alimentarius (http://www.codexalimentarius.net/gsfaonline/CXS_192e.pdf) E-codes and ingredients search engine with details/suggestions for Muslims (http://www.guidedways.com/ halalfoodguide.php) Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers (http://www.food.gov.uk/safereating/chemsafe/ additivesbranch/enumberlist) Food Additives in the European Union (http://www.foodlaw.rdg.ac.uk/additive.htm)

Article Sources and Contributors

23

Article Sources and Contributors

E number Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=453193436 Contributors: 078harrisj, 21655, A bit iffy, A. B., Acolyte of Discord, Agleh, Ahoerstemeier, Aitias, Alansohn, Albrozdude, Alex Law, Alvin-cs, Andre Engels, AndrooUK, Angles theatre, Anon423, Anthony, Atomice, Aude, AxelBoldt, Ayeomans, BD2412, Bfmv09, Biopresto, Blanu, Blupping, Boardy04, Bobo192, Bombyx2, Boomshadow, Busukxuan, CUTKD, Cacattila, CambridgeBayWeather, Can't sleep, clown will eat me, Capecodeph, Cassowary, CeNobiteElf, Ceyockey, CharlieMensin, Chasingsol, CheMechanical, ChemGardener, ChemNerd, Christian75, Ciotog, Ck lostsword, Cometstyles, Connormah, Crd721, Ctmt, Crales Killer, Daniel adjaye, DariusMazeika, Darrien, Debresser, Dekimasu, Dekisugi, Deli nk, Deror avi, Deviator13, Dilbao, DmitTrix, Donarreiskoffer, Doseiai2, Duckysmokton, EamonnPKeane, Eclecticology, Edgar181, Eequor, Eggegg29, Elvire, Emilonlinester, Enchanter, Epbr123, Everyking, F, FMasic, Fabbodian, Finlay McWalter, FlorinCB, Fonzy, Foobaz, Fred Bradstadt, Fyyer, Gabbe, GenestealerUK, Genpukzukov, Giftlite, Gil mo, Goatandsheep, Gogo Dodo, Graham87, Greswik, Groogle, Gscshoyru, Haeleth, Healy24, Heron, Hofoen, Hydrargyrum, Iamanorange, Image of me, Iris lorain, J Di, J.P.Lon, JBellis, JTN, Javadsha, Joelholdsworth, Joepeter, JohnOwens, Jrockley, Kaihsu, Keenan Pepper, Knorrepoes, Krefts, Kumorifox, LMB, Landak, Lemon-s, LilHelpa, Lindes, Lumos3, MGSpiller, MaNeMeBasat, Macrakis, Maderibeyza, Madhero88, Magnus Manske, Malcolm Farmer, Manscher, Markthemac, Materialscientist, Michaeljosephcleary, Michel Awkal, MrBell, Mroach, Muleattack, Mykhal, Nadiatalent, Nikevich, Nilmerg, Nono64, Nording (usurped), Old Moonraker, Ouishoebean, P.B., Panfily, Partha lal, PatrikR, Paxse, Pearle, Pengo, PeterC, Physchim62, PieterRN, Pinethicket, Pion, Pne, Polimerek, PopUpPirate, Postrediori, Pstrous, Puckly, Punter337, QuadrivialMind, Quercusrobur, Qutezuce, R'n'B, Rallette, ReciprocityProject, RenesisX, Rfl, Rich Farmbrough, Rjstott, Rjwilmsi, Rk6036, Rprpr, Rsrikanth05, Rune.welsh, Salamurai, Scout ed, SemperBlotto, SexyBern, Sgroupace, Shaddack, Shoy, SimonTrew, Singhalawap, Sjschen, Skizzik, SkyWalker, Sl, Sladen, Slakr, Smb1001, Smooth O, Sockatume, Sorsoup, StAnselm, Ste1n, Stephan Leeds, Stephenb, Stone, SuperTyphoon, SweBrainz, T0ny, TMA, Tarquin, Techhead0, The Anome, TheAgamer, TheFarix, Thinking of England, Thumperward, Tide rolls, Totalinarian, Toytoy, Tregoweth, TurboForce, Una Smith, UncleDouggie, Us441, V8rik, VanBurenen, Vildricianus, Vuong Ngan Ha, WacoJacko, WadeSimMiser, Walkerma, Wayland, Welsh, Wickey-nl, Wiki alf, Wikisquared, Willaston, Windchaser, Wytukaze, Yar, Zzuuzz, 532 anonymous edits

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