E-Numbers & Food Additives Hub
Understand food additives in your products at Food Reality Check
What Are E-Numbers?
E-numbers are reference codes assigned by the European Union to identify food additives approved for use in the EU and EFTA countries. The “E” stands for Europe. Each additive has been evaluated for safety by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) before approval. All approved additives must comply with strict legal specifications and purity criteria.
Important: An E-number on a label indicates the additive has passed safety testing, but it doesn’t mean all additives are the same—some are natural, others synthetic; some are well-established, others warrant caution.
E-Number Ranges & Categories
E100-E199 Colors
Used to enhance or restore food color. Include both natural (saffron, paprika) and synthetic dyes.
E200-E299 Preservatives
Extend shelf life by inhibiting microorganism growth. Examples: benzoic acid, sulfites.
E300-E399 Antioxidants
Prevent oxidation and rancidity in fats and oils. Include vitamin C, vitamin E analogs.
E400-E499 Thickeners & Emulsifiers
Modify texture, stability, and consistency. Include gums, starches, lecithins.
E500-E599 pH Regulators
Adjust acidity and anti-caking agents. Examples: sodium bicarbonate, citrates.
E600-E699 Flavor Enhancers
Enhance natural flavors. Primarily monosodium glutamate (MSG) and related compounds.
Understanding Additives Safety
Natural ✓
Derived from natural sources like plants, minerals, or microorganisms. Generally have fewer health concerns. Examples: saffron (E164), paprika (E160c), vitamin C (E300), sodium bicarbonate (E500).
Synthetic ⚙️
Produced through chemical processes. All approved additives have been safety tested, but some warrant moderation. Examples: artificial colorants (E110-E133), aspartame (E951), sucralose (E955).
Caution ⚠️
Additives that may warrant limited intake or have been flagged in recent research. This includes certain emulsifiers linked to cardiovascular concerns in high-intake studies, and some colorants under review. Always consult health authorities and nutrition experts for personalized guidance.
Key Facts About Food Additives
- All approved E-numbers have passed EU safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
- Additives are used in small quantities, typically at the end of ingredient lists
- Many natural sources contain additives chemically identical to synthetic versions (e.g., vitamin C)
- Individual safety testing doesn’t account for synergistic effects of multiple additives in processed foods
- Growing research focuses on long-term effects of high-intake consumption patterns
- Some previously approved additives have been withdrawn after new evidence emerged
- Reading ingredient labels helps you identify additives in your food choices