E-numbers explained
Short answer. An E-number identifies a food additive that the EU has assessed and authorised. The "E" stands for Europe. Authorised does not mean risk-free for every group. The EU keeps reviewing older additives.
What the number tells you
The number shows the additive, and the range shows its main group:
| Range | Typical group |
|---|---|
| E100–E199 | Colours |
| E200–E299 | Preservatives |
| E300–E399 | Antioxidants and acidity regulators |
| E400–E499 | Thickeners, stabilisers, emulsifiers |
| E500–E599 | Acidity regulators and anti-caking agents |
| E600–E699 | Flavour enhancers |
| E900–E999 | Glazing agents, sweeteners and others |
| E1000 and up | Other additives |
The ranges are only a guide, and a few additives sit outside the group their range suggests.
How the EU authorises additives
- Only additives on the Union list may be used, and only in the foods and amounts that the list allows. The list is part of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.
- The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) assesses the safety of each additive before authorisation.
- The European Commission and the Member States decide on authorisation.
Re-evaluation
Additives that were authorised before 20 January 2009 go through a new EFSA review. EFSA has completed most of them, and the programme is still running. A re-evaluation can confirm an additive, change the safe intake, or lead to restrictions. Titanium dioxide (E171) is an example: it is no longer authorised in food in the EU.
What "authorised" does not mean
- It does not mean the amount you eat is irrelevant. Safe intakes are set per kilogram of body weight, so small children have less room.
- It does not cover every sensitivity. For example, some people react to sulphites.
- It does not cover pets. Safety assessments for people do not apply to dogs and cats.
What IngrediScan does
The app matches E-numbers and names to one entry and shows a risk level for the profile you choose, with the reason and the sources. See how IngrediScan decides.
Sources
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives
- EFSA: food additives
- European Commission: re-evaluation of food additives
Ingredient pages
- Sodium Benzoate (E211)
- Monosodium glutamate (E621)
- Aspartame (E951, E962)
- Titanium Dioxide (E171)
- Sodium Nitrite (E250)
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.