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]

This article is about the food additive codes. For the constant, see e (mathematical constant). For other uses, see E number (disambiguation).

A solution of E101 riboflavin (also known as vitamin B2)

Crystals of E621 monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavour enhancer

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 as per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012
E555	Potassium aluminium silicate	anti-caking agent	removed from list as per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012
E556	Calcium aluminosilicate (calcium aluminium silicate)	anti-caking agent	removed from list as per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012
E557	Zinc silicate	anti-caking agent	removed from list as per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012
E558	Bentonite	anti-caking agent	removed from list as per Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 of 3 May 2012
E559	Aluminium silicate (Kaolin)	anti-caking agent	removed from list as 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)

[26]

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)

Code	Name(s)	Purpose	Status
E900	Dimethyl polysiloxane (anti-foaming agent)	anti-caking agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E901	Beeswax, white and yellow	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E902	Candelilla wax	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E903	Carnauba wax	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E904	Shellac	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E905	Paraffins		Approved in the EU.[20]
E905a	Mineral oil	anti-foaming agent
E905b	Petrolatum
E905c	Petroleum wax (i)Microcrystalline wax (ii) Paraffin wax	glazing agent
E906	Gum benzoic	flavour enhancer
E907	Crystalline wax	glazing agent
E908	Rice bran wax	glazing agent
E909	Spermaceti wax	glazing agent
E910	Wax esters	glazing agent
E911	Methyl esters of fatty acids	glazing agent
E912	Montanic acid esters, Montan acid esters	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E913	Lanolin, sheep wool grease	glazing agent
E914	Oxidized polyethylene wax, oxidized polyethylene	glazing agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E915	Esters of colophony	glazing agent
E916	Calcium iodate
E917	Potassium iodate
E918	Nitrogen oxides
E919	Nitrosyl chloride
E920	L-cysteine	improving agent	Banned in the EU
E921	L-cystine	improving agent
E922	Potassium persulfate	improving agent
E923	Ammonium persulfate	improving agent
E924	Potassium bromate	improving agent	Banned in the EU
E924b	Calcium bromate	improving agent
E925	Chlorine	preservative, bleach, improving agent
E926	Chlorine dioxide (preservative)	bleach
E927a	Azodicarbonamide	improving agent
E927b	Carbamide (urea)	improving agent	Approved in the EU.[20]
E928	Benzoyl peroxide (improving agent)	bleach
E929	Acetone peroxide
E930	Calcium peroxide (improving agent)	bleach
E938	Argon	packaging gas	Approved in the EU.[20]
E939	Helium	packaging gas	Approved in the EU.[20]
E940	Dichlorodifluoromethane	packaging gas	Banned in all countries, in compliance with the Montreal Protocol.
E941	Nitrogen (packaging gas)	propellant	Approved in the EU.[20]
E942	Nitrous oxide	propellant	Approved in the EU.[20]
E943a	Butane	propellant	Approved in the EU.[20]
E943b	Isobutane	propellant	Approved in the EU.[20]
E944	Propane	propellant	Approved in the EU.[20]
E945	Chloropentafluoroethane	propellant
E946	Octafluorocyclobutane	propellant
E948	Oxygen	packaging gas	Approved in the EU.[20]
E949	Hydrogen	packaging gas	Approved in the EU.[20]
E950	Acesulfame potassium	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E951	Aspartame	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E952	Cyclamic acid and its sodium and calcium salts, also known as Cyclamate	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E953	Isomalt, Isomaltitol	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E954	Saccharin and its sodium, potassium and calcium salts	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E955	Sucralose (Trichlorogalactosucrose)	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E956	Alitame	sweetener
E957	Thaumatin (sweetener)	flavour enhancer	Approved in the EU.[25]
E958	Glycyrrhizin (sweetener)	flavour enhancer
E959	Neohesperidine dihydrochalcone (sweetener)	flavour enhancer	Approved in the EU.[25]
E960	Steviol glycosides	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[27]
E961	Neotame	sweetener	Approved in 2010[24]
E962	Aspartame-acesulfame salt (sweetener)	stabiliser	Approved in the EU.[25]
E965	Maltitol (i) Maltitol (ii) Maltitol syrup (sweetener) (stabiliser)	humectant	Approved in the EU.[25]
E966	Lactitol	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E967	Xylitol	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E968	Erythritol	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E969	Advantame	sweetener	Approved in the EU.[25]
E999	Quillaia extract	foaming agent	Approved in the EU.[20]

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

See also

• Food Chemicals Codex
• List of food additives
• List of food additives, Codex Alimentarius

References

1. "Food labels". Live Well. NHS Choices. Archived from the original on 26 May 2019. Retrieved 26 December 2012.
2. "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.
3. 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.
4. "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.
5. Dr David Jukes. "Food Additives in the European Union". Foodlaw-Reading | The University of Reading, UK. Archived from the original on 26 April 2019.
6. 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.
7. Food Standards Australia New Zealand Archived 6 April 2011 at the Wayback Machine, website
8. https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/food_leg_lgfa.html
9. See also "Food Additives", Food and Drug Administration website
10. "Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers". United Kingdom: Food Standards Agency. 2010. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
11. "Summary of Color Additives for Use in United States in Foods, Drugs, Cosmetics, and Medical Devices". United States Food and Drug Administration.
12. Additives Archived 6 April 2011 at the Wayback Machine, Food Standards Australia New Zealand
13. "Food additives". CBC News. 29 September 2008. Archived from the original on 9 September 2013.
14. 21 C.F.R. 74.302
15. "Death of a Dye". TIME magazine. 2 February 1976. Retrieved 19 December 2019.
16. 21 C.F.R. 81.10
17. 21 C.F.R. 81.30
18. 21 C.F.R. 82.304
20. Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
21. Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code "Standard 1.2.4 - Labelling of ingredients". Retrieved 27 October 2011.
22. Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
23. Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
24. New additives approved for use, Food Standards Agency, Friday 26 November 2010
25. Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
26. "E700-E799 (antibiotics)". Sigma-Aldrich. Retrieved 17 December 2018.
27. Stevia EU approval
28. 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.