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

E333 – Calcium citrates

E333 calcium citrates are acidity regulators and firming agents used in foods and drinks. Current evidence is broadly reassuring, though very high total calcium intake may cause digestive discomfort.
E380 – Triammonium citrate

E380 triammonium citrate is an acidity regulator used in some processed foods and drinks. Current evidence is broadly reassuring, but direct studies are limited.
E385 – Calcium disodium EDTA

E385 calcium disodium EDTA helps keep colour and flavour stable, but older safety data and newer EDTA gut concerns support an ORANGE - SOME CONCERNS grade.
E326 – Potassium lactate

E326, potassium lactate, is a lactic acid salt used mainly in processed meats to control pH, hold moisture, and slow bacterial growth; for most consumers it appears low risk, but people on potassium-restricted diets should pay attention.
E325 – Sodium lactate

E325 (sodium lactate) is a lactate salt used mainly as an acidity regulator and antimicrobial support, especially in processed meats. It is generally considered low risk for most people. Main practical concern is added sodium in some foods.
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 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) 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) 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.
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)

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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