Food additives database

Is It Safe? Side Effects & Regulation

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Category: Antioxidants and acidity regulators

300–399 – ANTIOXIDANTS AND ACIDITY REGULATORS
300–305 Ascorbates (vitamin C)
306–309 Tocopherol (vitamin E)
310–319 Gallates and erythorbates
320–329 Lactates
330–337 Citrates and tartrates
338–343 Phosphates
344–345 Citrates
349–359 Malates and adipates
360–369 Succinates and fumarates
370–399 Others

  • E316 – Sodium erythorbate

    E316 – Sodium erythorbate

    E316 (sodium erythorbate) is an antioxidant used mainly in cured and processed meats to stabilise colour and slow oxidation. It remains legally permitted, but a new large cohort study reported a small association with cancer incidence at higher intakes, so we grade it ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS. The most practical risk-reduction step is limiting ultra-processed…

  • E341 – Calcium Phosphates (i, ii, iii)

    E341 – Calcium Phosphates (i, ii, iii)

    E341 refers to calcium phosphates (i, ii, iii) used in foods as leavening acids, mineral supplements and anti-caking agents. While approved globally, modern studies raise concerns about excessive phosphate intake and its impact on kidney and cardiovascular health, leading to an ORANGE safety grade.

  • E306 – Tocopherol-rich extract (Vitamin E)

    E306 – Tocopherol-rich extract (Vitamin E)

    E306 (Tocopherol-rich extract) is a natural antioxidant sourced from vegetable oils and rich in vitamin E forms. It protects fats from oxidation and is considered safe at permitted levels. EFSA evaluations and independent research both support a strong GREEN – SAFE grading.

  • E296 – Malic Acid

    E296 – Malic Acid

    E296 (Malic Acid) is a naturally occurring organic acid found in fruits such as apples and grapes. It is widely used as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer with a strong safety record. Regulatory agencies classify it as safe, and independent research supports good tolerance at normal dietary levels. Safety grade: GREEN – SAFE.

  • E331 – Sodium and Potassium Citrates

    E331 – Sodium and Potassium Citrates

    A complete safety and regulatory overview of E331 sodium and potassium citrates, including how they’re used and why authorities consider them safe.

  • E339 – Sodium phosphates

    E339 – Sodium phosphates

    E339 (sodium phosphates) are acidity regulators, emulsifying salts and sequestrants. Learn how they are made, where they are allowed, typical uses, and why we grade them ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS based on EFSA’s ADI and emerging kidney–cardiovascular evidence.

  • E320 – Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)

    E320 – Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)

    Butylated hydroxyanisole (E320, BHA) is a synthetic antioxidant used to protect fats and oils from rancidity. It is permitted in the EU with an ADI of 1.0 mg/kg bw/day and allowed in the US for specified uses, but mechanistic and high‑dose animal data raise endocrine and tumor concerns. We grade it ORANGE — Some Concerns.

  • E321 – Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

    E321 – Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

    Butylated hydroxytoluene (E321, BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant used to stabilize fats and oils. EFSA set an ADI of 0.25 mg/kg bw/day in 2012. While permitted in the EU and US, mechanistic and high‑dose animal data suggest endocrine, hepatic, and tumor‑promotion effects, so we grade it ORANGE — Some Concerns.

  • E270 – Lactic acid

    E270 – Lactic acid

    Lactic acid (E270) is a widely used acidity regulator and preservative. This summary explains its safety grade (GREEN), common uses, science and production, and where it is allowed.

  • E338 – Phosphoric Acid

    E338 – Phosphoric Acid

    Phosphoric acid (E338) is widely used in soft drinks and processed foods. It is legally permitted but controversial due to links with bone health, dental erosion, and kidney issues.

  • E330 – Citric acid

    E330 – Citric acid

    Citric acid (E330) is classified here as GREEN because it is naturally found in citrus fruits and is widely recognized as safe. It is one of the most commonly used food acids and preservatives worldwide.

  • E304 – Ascorbyl palmitate

    E304 – Ascorbyl palmitate

    Ascorbyl palmitate (E304) is a fat‑soluble vitamin C derivative used as an antioxidant to protect fats and flavors. Widely considered safe at authorised uses.

  • E302 – Calcium ascorbate

    E302 – Calcium ascorbate

    Calcium ascorbate (E302) is a safe food additive used as an antioxidant and dietary source of Vitamin C and calcium.

  • E301 – Sodium ascorbate

    E301 – Sodium ascorbate

    Sodium ascorbate (E301) is a safe food additive used as an antioxidant and source of Vitamin C.

  • E300 – Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

    E300 – Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

    Ascorbic Acid (E300) is Vitamin C – a safe, natural antioxidant widely used to preserve freshness, prevent oxidation, and provide nutritional benefits.