Welcome to the Food Additives Database – a reliable resource for understanding E-numbers and their role in our everyday food. Each entry provides clear information on what the additive is, where it is commonly used, and whether it is considered safe. You will also find details about possible side effects, scientific evaluations, and regulatory status in the EU, US, and other markets. Our mission is to make it easy for consumers, researchers, and professionals to check the safety grading of additives at a glance – GREEN (Safe), ORANGE (Some Concerns), or RED (Unsafe/Banned). Explore the database to learn more about food colorings, preservatives, sweeteners, and other additives that affect the quality, safety, and shelf life of the foods we eat.
Safety grading
RED – UNSAFE
Only for additives that are banned or clearly unsafe based on strong scientific consensus. e.g., E123 Amaranth, banned in the US, linked to cancer risk
ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS
Additives still legally allowed in the EU/US but controversial, restricted in some contexts, or under scientific debate. e.g., E249 Potassium nitrite and E250 Sodium nitrite, legal but tied to carcinogenic risk in processed meats.
GREEN – SAFE
Generally recognized as safe, widely accepted without controversy. e.g., E300 Ascorbic acid.