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'''E number''' is a system of codes for substances used as food additives within the European Union (EU) and Switzerland. The "E" stands for "Europe" or "European Union". The system is maintained by the [[European Food Safety Authority]] (EFSA). The substances covered by E numbers include preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, and colors, among others.
{{Short description|A comprehensive guide to E numbers used in food additives}}


== History ==
==Overview==
[[E numbers]] are codes for substances that are permitted to be used as [[food additives]] within the [[European Union]] and [[European Free Trade Association]]. They are commonly found on food labels throughout the EU. The "E" stands for "Europe" or "European". These numbers are used to standardize the identification of additives across languages and regions.


The E number system was introduced in the 1960s with the aim of clearly identifying and controlling food additives used within the EU. The system was developed by the [[Codex Alimentarius]], a collection of internationally recognized standards and guidelines related to food production and safety.
==Classification==
E numbers are categorized based on their function in food products. The main categories include:


== Classification ==
===Colorants===
[[Food colorings]] are used to enhance or restore color in food. They are assigned E numbers ranging from E100 to E199. Examples include:
* '''E100''' - [[Curcumin]], a yellow colorant derived from turmeric.
* '''E102''' - [[Tartrazine]], a synthetic lemon yellow dye.


E numbers are categorized according to their function as food additives. For example, E100–E199 are colors, E200–E299 are preservatives, E300–E399 are antioxidants and acidity regulators, and so on. Each category is further divided into specific substances, each with its own E number.
===Preservatives===
Preservatives help to prevent food spoilage caused by microorganisms. They are assigned E numbers from E200 to E299. Examples include:
* '''E200''' - [[Sorbic acid]], used to inhibit molds and yeasts.
* '''E202''' - [[Potassium sorbate]], a salt of sorbic acid.


== Safety and Regulation ==
===Antioxidants and Acidity Regulators===
These additives prevent oxidation and maintain the acidity of food. They are assigned E numbers from E300 to E399. Examples include:
* '''E300''' - [[Ascorbic acid]], also known as vitamin C.
* '''E330''' - [[Citric acid]], a natural preservative and flavor enhancer.


All substances that are assigned an E number have been assessed for safety by the EFSA. However, some E numbers are associated with health concerns or dietary restrictions and may be avoided by certain individuals or groups. For example, some E numbers are derived from animal products and may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
===Thickeners, Stabilizers, and Emulsifiers===
These additives help to maintain the texture and consistency of food. They are assigned E numbers from E400 to E499. Examples include:
* '''E400''' - [[Alginic acid]], derived from seaweed.
* '''E410''' - [[Locust bean gum]], used as a thickening agent.


== Controversies ==
===Sweeteners===
Sweeteners are used to provide a sweet taste without the calories of sugar. They are assigned E numbers from E900 to E999. Examples include:
* '''E950''' - [[Acesulfame potassium]], a calorie-free sweetener.
* '''E951''' - [[Aspartame]], a low-calorie sweetener.


Despite the safety assessments carried out by the EFSA, there are ongoing debates about the safety and health impacts of certain E numbers. Some have been linked to health problems such as allergies, asthma, and hyperactivity in children. However, the scientific evidence is often inconclusive, and the use of these additives remains legal and widespread.
==Regulation and Safety==
The use of E numbers is regulated by the [[European Food Safety Authority]] (EFSA). Each additive is evaluated for safety, and acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels are established. The EFSA continuously reviews scientific data to ensure consumer safety.


== See also ==
==Controversies==
Some E numbers have been the subject of controversy due to potential health effects. For example, certain colorants have been linked to [[hyperactivity]] in children, leading to calls for further research and regulation.


==Related pages==
* [[Food additive]]
* [[Food additive]]
* [[Codex Alimentarius]]
* [[European Food Safety Authority]]
* [[European Food Safety Authority]]
* [[Food safety]]
* [[Food coloring]]
 
* [[Preservative]]
== References ==
 
<references />


[[Category:Food additives]]
[[Category:Food additives]]
[[Category:Food safety]]
[[Category:Food chemistry]]
[[Category:European Union]]
[[Category:European Union law]]
{{food-stub}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:E_number|E number
File:Riboflavin_solution.jpg|Riboflavin solution
File:Riboflavin_solution.jpg|Riboflavin solution
File:Monosodium_glutamate_crystals.jpg|Monosodium glutamate crystals
File:Monosodium_glutamate_crystals.jpg|Monosodium glutamate crystals
File:Glucuronolactone-hemiacetal.svg|Glucuronolactone hemiacetal
</gallery>
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 21:29, 20 February 2025

A comprehensive guide to E numbers used in food additives


Overview[edit]

E numbers are codes for substances that are permitted to be used as food additives within the European Union and European Free Trade Association. They are commonly found on food labels throughout the EU. The "E" stands for "Europe" or "European". These numbers are used to standardize the identification of additives across languages and regions.

Classification[edit]

E numbers are categorized based on their function in food products. The main categories include:

Colorants[edit]

Food colorings are used to enhance or restore color in food. They are assigned E numbers ranging from E100 to E199. Examples include:

  • E100 - Curcumin, a yellow colorant derived from turmeric.
  • E102 - Tartrazine, a synthetic lemon yellow dye.

Preservatives[edit]

Preservatives help to prevent food spoilage caused by microorganisms. They are assigned E numbers from E200 to E299. Examples include:

Antioxidants and Acidity Regulators[edit]

These additives prevent oxidation and maintain the acidity of food. They are assigned E numbers from E300 to E399. Examples include:

Thickeners, Stabilizers, and Emulsifiers[edit]

These additives help to maintain the texture and consistency of food. They are assigned E numbers from E400 to E499. Examples include:

Sweeteners[edit]

Sweeteners are used to provide a sweet taste without the calories of sugar. They are assigned E numbers from E900 to E999. Examples include:

Regulation and Safety[edit]

The use of E numbers is regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Each additive is evaluated for safety, and acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels are established. The EFSA continuously reviews scientific data to ensure consumer safety.

Controversies[edit]

Some E numbers have been the subject of controversy due to potential health effects. For example, certain colorants have been linked to hyperactivity in children, leading to calls for further research and regulation.

Related pages[edit]

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