E-additives safety guide

Is it safe? Side effects & regulation

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Tag: SAFE

  • E162 – Beetroot Red (Betanin)

    E162 – Beetroot Red (Betanin)

    E162 (Beetroot Red), also known as betanin, is a natural red-purple food colour extracted from beetroot. It is widely used in beverages, confectionery and dairy products and is considered safe for consumers based on current scientific evidence.

  • E417 – Tara gum

    E417 – Tara gum

    E417 (Tara gum) is a natural thickener obtained from the seeds of the tara tree. It is widely used to improve texture and stability in dairy, bakery and processed foods. Current scientific evidence supports a GREEN – SAFE safety grading for the general population.

  • 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.

  • E322 – Lecithins

    E322 – Lecithins

    E322 (Lecithins) are natural phospholipid emulsifiers from soy, sunflower or egg. They are widely used in chocolate, baked goods and infant formulas. Regulatory bodies consider lecithins safe, and independent studies support excellent tolerance, so the grading is GREEN – SAFE.

  • E900 – Dimethylpolysiloxane

    E900 – Dimethylpolysiloxane

    E900 (Dimethylpolysiloxane, PDMS) is a silicone-based antifoaming agent used in frying oils, soft drinks and processed foods. EFSA’s 2020 re-evaluation set an ADI of 17 mg/kg bw/day and found no safety concern at authorised uses, so we grade it GREEN – SAFE for normal dietary exposure.

  • E500 – Sodium Carbonates (i, ii, iii)

    E500 – Sodium Carbonates (i, ii, iii)

    Full scientific review of sodium carbonates (E500(i), E500(ii), E500(iii)), their uses, safety profile and regulatory status.

  • E262(i) – Sodium Acetate

    E262(i) – Sodium Acetate

    Sodium acetate (E262(i)) is a heat-stable acidity regulator and preservative used in snacks, sauces and meat products. It is approved in the EU and US and considered safe at permitted use levels.

  • E160c – Paprika Extract (Capsanthin, Capsorubin)

    E160c – Paprika Extract (Capsanthin, Capsorubin)

    Natural red-orange colorant extracted from paprika (Capsicum annuum). E160c – Paprika extract (Capsanthin, Capsorubin) is graded GREEN – SAFE due to its natural origin, strong antioxidant profile, and regulatory approval by EFSA and FDA.

  • E170 – Calcium carbonate

    E170 – Calcium carbonate

    Calcium carbonate (E170) is a naturally occurring mineral used as a white food colorant and acidity regulator. It is considered safe by EFSA and FDA when used within regulated limits.

  • E150a – Plain Caramel (Class I)

    E150a – Plain Caramel (Class I)

    E150a (Plain Caramel) is produced by heating sugars without ammonium or sulfite compounds. It is chemically simpler, does not generate nitrogenous by‑products like 4‑MeI, and is considered safe at permitted uses. We grade it GREEN – SAFE.

  • 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.

  • E1422 – Acetylated Distarch Adipate

    E1422 – Acetylated Distarch Adipate

    E1422 Acetylated Distarch Adipate is a modified starch thickener and stabiliser with a strong safety record. We grade it GREEN – SAFE.

  • E410 – Locust Bean Gum

    E410 – Locust Bean Gum

    Toxicological studies show no evidence of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, or reproductive toxicity. Locust bean gum functions like other soluble dietary fibers and is not absorbed intact in the gut. Instead, it passes into the colon where it undergoes fermentation by gut microbiota.

  • E422 – Glycerol

    E422 – Glycerol

    Glycerol is naturally present in fats and oils and is also produced commercially. It has a long record of safe use. Toxicological studies demonstrate that glycerol is not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic.

  • E415 – Xanthan Gum

    E415 – Xanthan Gum

    Health concerns are minimal, though excessive consumption may lead to mild digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. This can include bloating, flatulence, or a laxative effect when consumed in high amounts.

  • E141 – Copper complexes of chlorophylls

    E141 – Copper complexes of chlorophylls

    E141 (Copper complexes of chlorophylls) are natural green food colorants. Safe, stable, and widely used in beverages, canned vegetables, and confectionery.

  • E140 – Chlorophylls

    E140 – Chlorophylls

    Chlorophylls (E140) are natural green pigments used as food colorants. Safe, non-toxic, and with possible antioxidant benefits.

  • E160a – Beta-carotene

    E160a – Beta-carotene

    Beta-carotene (E160a) is a natural orange pigment and vitamin A precursor. Safe, widely used in foods, and beneficial as an antioxidant.

  • E200 – Sorbic acid

    E200 – Sorbic acid

    Sorbic acid (E200) is widely regarded as safe when used within approved limits. It has been extensively assessed by regulators and is one of the most relied‑upon food preservatives for controlling moulds and yeasts in foods with a mildly acidic pH.