Food additives (e numbers)

   Additional substances - "food additives" are substances added to foods by producers to prevent spoilage or to improve appearance, taste, texture, or nutritive value. Food additives may directly or indirectly become food ingredients or in other way affect its characteristic features.



Role in food of food additives

   Some food additives have more than one use. Food additives are listed according to their roles. Examples of the most common roles are:

? Colors add or restore color to foods, keep or intensify the color of food.
? Preservatives help protect against deteriorations caused by microorganisms.
? Sweeteners are substances which give a sweet taste for fewer kilojoules or calories than sugar.
? Flavor enhancers improve the flavor and/or aroma of food.
? Anti-caking agents keep powdered products such as salt, flowing freely when poured.
? Emulsifiers help to prevent oil and water mixtures from separating into layers.
? Acidity regulators help maintain a constant sourness in food.
? Humectants prevent foods such as dried fruit from drying out.
? Thickeners and vegetable gums improve texture and maintain uniform consistency.
? Stabilisers maintain the uniform dispersion of substances in a food.
? Glazing agents give a shiny appearance or provide a protective coating to a food.
? Propellants are gases which help propel food from a container.



Functions of food additives

? maintain product consistency. Emulsifiers provide a consistent texture and prevent products from separating. Stabilizers and thickeners provide a uniform texture. Anticaking agents enable substances to flow freely.
? improve or preserve the nutrient value. Fortification and enrichment of foods has made it possible to improve the nutritional status of population. For example, vitamins and minerals are added to many foods including flour, cereal, margarine, and milk. This helps to make up for vitamins or minerals that may be low or lacking in an individual?s diet.
? maintain the wholesomeness and the palatability of foods. Contamination from bacteria can allow food-borne illnesses to occur. Preservatives reduce the spoilage that air, fungi, bacteria, or yeast can cause. Preservatives such as antioxidants help baked goods preserve their flavor by preventing the fats and oils from becoming rancid. They also keep fresh fruits from turning brown when exposed to the air.
? control the acidity and alkalinity, and to provide leavening. Specific additives aid to adjustment of the acidity or alkalinity of foods to gain a wished taste, color, or flavor. Leavening agents that release acids when they are heated react with baking soda to help biscuits, cakes, and other baked goods rise.
? provide color and improve flavor. Certain colors improve appearance of foods. There are many spices and natural and synthetic flavors that bring out the best in the flavor of food.



International Numbering System (INS) for food additives

   INS system for food additives is a european-based naming system for food additives, aimed at providing a short designation of what may be a lengthy actual name. It is defined by Codex Alimentarius, the international food standards organisation of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The information is published in the document, Class Names and the International Numbering System for Food Additives, first published in 1989, with revisions in 2008 and 2011. The INS is an open list, "subject to the inclusion of additional additives or removal of existing ones on an ongoing basis". The International Numbering System numbers (INS) consist of three or four digits, optionally followed by an alphabetical suffix to further characterize individual additives. On packaging in the European Union, approved food additives are written with a prefix of 'E'. In Australia and New Zealand the numbers are the same as in Europe, but without the prefix "E". E-numbers are also encountered on food labelling in other jurisdictions, including the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, Australia, New Zealand and Israel. They are increasingly, though still rarely, found on North American packaging, especially in Canada on imported European products. An additive that appears in the INS does not automatically have a corresponding e-number. Except where stated, the list of INS numbers and associated food additives is based on the most recent publication of the Codex Alimentarius, E-number and American approval flags are derived from other sources. In some European countries, "e-number" is sometimes used informally as a pejorative term for artificial food additives, and products may promote themselves as "free of e-numbers".



How are food additives regulated ?

   In Europe food additives are authorised at EU level for all the member states, as well as for Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. All additives in the EU must be authorised and listed with conditions of use in the EU's 'positive' list based on: a safety assessment, the technological need and ensuring that use of the additive will not mislead consumers.
  
   In the United States, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food additives under the authority of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1938 and amendments in 1958 and 1960. These amendments include the ?Delaney Clause? which bans the approval of an additive if it is shown to cause cancer in humans or animals. Before using a new food or color additive, a manufacturer must petition the FDA for approval. As part of the petition, the manufacturer must prove the additive does what it is intended to do, and is not harmful to humans at the expected consumption.

   The FDA decides, based on the best scientific data available, if the additive is safe under the proposed conditions of use. If the FDA approves an additive, it issues regulations that may include: the types of foods the additive can be used in, the maximum amounts to be used, and the labeling needs. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) must also approve additives that are proposed for use in meat and poultry products. After approving a new additive, government officials watch consumption and keep track of any new research on its safety. The FDA also runs an ?Adverse Reaction Monitoring System (ARS)? to examine complaints from consumers, doctors, or food companies about food additives. The ARS database helps officials track complaints and decide if a reported adverse reaction represents a real public health hazard associated with food.

   There are two categories of food additives that are not subject to the testing and approval procedure, ?prior sanctioned? and ?GRAS? substances. Substances appointed as prior sanctioned were approved by the FDA before the 1958 Food Additives Amendment. GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) additives have been extensively used in the past with no known harmful effect and are believed to be safe. Substances on the GRAS list have been under review since 1969 to insure their safety.

   In Australia and New Zealand, the use of food additives in foods is regulated by the Food Standards Code and enforced under state and territory food laws. The Australia New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA) is responsible for developing of, or variation to, food standards in the Food Standards Code. The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Council (ANZFSC), made up of State, Territory, Commonwealth and New Zealand Health Ministers, makes the final decision. ANZFA only allows additives if it can be shown that no harmful effects are expected to result. This involves their scientists evaluating the data gained from extensive testing of the additive. A decision on food additive safety is based on the acceptable daily intake (ADI), which is amount of a food additive that can be eaten every day for an entire lifetime without adverse effect.



List of food additives

E-number	Name	Additional information and remarks
E100-E199 - Colors
E100	Curcumin	Yellow-orange color; stemmed from the root of the curcuma (turmeric) plant, but can be artificially produced; used in cheese, margarine, baked sweets and fish fingers. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E101 E101a	Riboflavin, Riboflavin-5'-phosphate	Yellow-orange color; "vitamin B2" and color; occurs naturally in green vegetables, eggs, milk, liver and kidney; used in margarine and cheese. E101 approved in the EU and in the US, E101a approved in the EU.
E102	Tartrazine	Lemon yellow color; known to provoke asthma attacks (though the US FDA do not recognize this) and urticaria (nettle rash) in children (the US FDA estimates 1:10 000); also linked to thyroid tumors, chromosomal damage, urticaria (hives) and hyperactivity; tartrazine sensitivity is also linked to aspirin sensitivity; used to color drinks, sweets, jams, cereals, snack foods, canned fish, packaged soups. Approved in the EU.
E103	Alkannin	Red-brown color.
E104	Quinoline yellow	Dull or greenish yellow color; used in lipsticks hair products, colognes; also in a wide range of medications; cause dermatitis. Approved in the EU, undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK.
E105	Fast yellow AB	Yellow color.
E106	Riboflavin-5-sodium phosphate	Yellow color.
E107	Yellow 7G	Yellow color; the HACSG recommends to avoid it; people who suffer Asthma may also show an allergic reaction to it; typical products are soft drinks. Banned in Australia and US.
E110	Sunset yellow FCF, Orange yellow S	Yellow-orange color; used in cereals, bakery, sweets, snack foods, ice cream, drinks and canned fish; synthetic; also in many medications including Berocca, Polaramine, Ventolin syrup; side effects are urticaria (hives), rhinitis (runny nose), nasal congestion, allergies, hyperactivity, kidney tumors, chromosomal damage, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, distaste for food; seen increased incidence of tumors in animals. Banned in Norway, approved in the EU and in the US, products in the EU require warnings and its use is being phased-out.
E111	Orange GGN	Orange color.
E120	Cochineal, Carminic acid, Carmines	Crimson color; made from insects; rarely used; the HASCG recommends to avoid it. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E121	Citrus red 2	Dark red color. Approved in the US only for use in colouring the skin of oranges.
E122	Azorubine, Carmoisine	Red to maroon color; coal tar derivative; can produce bad reactions in asthmatics and people allergic to aspirin; typical products are confectionery, marzipan, jelly crystals. Approved in the EU, undergoing a voluntary phase-out in the UK. Currently banned in Canada, Japan, Norway, US, EU currently evaluating health risks.
E123	Amaranth	Dark red color; stemmed from the small herbaceous plant of the same name; used in cake mixes, fruit-flavored fillings, jelly crystals; can provoke asthma, eczema and hyperactivity; it caused birth defects and foetal deaths in some animal tests, possibly also cancer. Approved in the EU.
E124	Ponceau 4R, Cochineal red A, Brilliant scarlet 4R	Red color; synthetic coal tar and azo dye, carcinogen in animals, can produce bad reactions in asthmatics and people allergic to aspirin. Approved in the EU.
E125	Ponceau SX, Scarlet GN	Red color. Only permitted for externally applied drugs and cosmetics in the US.
E126	Ponceau 6R	Red color.
E127	Erythrosine	Red color; used in cherries, canned fruit, custard mix, sweets, bakery, snack foods; can cause sensitivity to light; can increase thyroid hormone levels and lead to hyperthyroidism, was shown to cause thyroid cancer in rats in a study in 1990. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E128	Red 2G	Red color.
E129	Allura red AC	Red color; used in sweets, drinks and condiments, medications and cosmetics, synthetic; introduced in the early eighties to replace amaranth which was considered not safe because of conflicting test results; allura red has also been connected with cancer in mice. Approved in the EU. Banned in Switzerland. Undergoing a voluntary phase out in the UK. Approved in the US.
E130	Indanthrene blue RS	Blue color.
E131	Patent blue V	Dark blue color. Approved in the EU.
E132	Indigotine, Indigo carmine	Indigo color; commonly added to tablets and capsules; also used in ice cream, sweets, baked goods, confectionery, biscuits, synthetic coal tar derivative; may cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, skin rashes, breathing problems and other allergic reactions. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E133	Brilliant blue FCF	Reddish blue color; used in dairy products, sweets and drinks, synthetic usually occurring as aluminum lake (solution) or ammonium salt. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E140	Chlorophyll, Chlorophyllins	Green color; occurs naturally in all plants; used for dyeing waxes and oils, used in medicines and cosmetics. Approved in the EU.
E141	Copper complexes of chlorophyll and chlorophyllins	Olive color, no adverse effects are known. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E142	Green S	Green color; synthetic coal tar derivative; used in canned peas, mint jelly and sauce, packet bread crumbs and cake mixes. Approved in the EU.
E143	Fast green FCF (FD&C Green 3)	Sea green color. Approved in the US. Banned in the EU.
E150a	Plain caramel	Dark brown color; made from sucrose; the HACSG recommends to avoid it. used in oyster, soy, fruit and canned sauces, beer, whiskey, biscuits, pickles. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E150b	Caustic sulphite caramel	See E150a. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E150c	Ammonia caramel	See E150a. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E150d	Sulphite ammonia caramel	See E150a. Approved in the US.
E151	Brilliant black BN, Black PN	Black color; coal tar derivative; used in brown sauces, blackcurrant cake mixes. Approved in the US.
E152	Carbon black (hydrocarbon)	Black color.
E153	Vegetable carbon	Black color; charcoal pigment; used in jams, jelly crystals, liquorice. Approved in the EU.
E154	Brown FK	Brown color. Approved in the EU for dyeing kippers only, however appears to no longer be used.
E155	Brown HT (Chocolate)	Brown color; coal tar and azo dye; used in chocolate cake mixes; can produce bad reactions in asthmatics and people allergic to aspirin; also known to induce skin sensitivity. Approved in the EU.
E160a	Alpha-carotene, Beta-carotene, Gamma-carotene	Yellow-orange to brown; human body converts it to 'Vitamin A' in the liver, found in carrots and other yellow or orange fruits and vegetables. Approved in the EU.
E160b	Annatto, bixin, norbixin	Orange color; stemmed from a tree (Bixa orellana); used as a body paint, fabric dye, digestive aid and expectorant; used to dye cheese, butter, margarine, cereals, snack foods, soaps, textiles and varnishes; known to cause urticaria (nettle rash), the HACSG recommends to avoid it. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E160c	Paprika oleoresin, Capsanthin, capsorubin	Red color. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E160d	Lycopene	Bright to deep red color; carotenoid found in tomatoes and pink grapefruit, can cause decreasing risk of cancer. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E160e	Beta-apo-8'-carotenal (C 30)	Orange-red to yellow color; no adverse effects are known. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E160f	Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'- carotenic acid (C 30)	Orange-red to yellow color; no adverse effects are known. Approved in the EU.
E161a	Flavoxanthin	Golden-yellow and brownish color.
E161b	Lutein	Orange-red to yellow color; stemmed from plants, naturally found in green leaves, marigolds and egg yolks. Approved in the EU.
E161c	Cryptoxanthin	Orange-red color.
E161d	Rubixanthin	Orange-red color.
E161e	Violaxanthin	Orange color.
E161f	Rubixanthin	Purple color.
E161g	Canthaxanthin	Violet color; the pigment is found in some mushrooms, crustacea, fish, flamingo feathers; in January 2003, the European Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health voted to reduce the permitted levels of canthaxanthin in animal feeds due to the health risk to human consumers of the animal products; canthaxanthin pigment has been found to accumulate on the retina, having a detrimental effect on eyesight. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E161h	Zeaxanthin	Orange-red color.
E161i	Citranaxanthin	Deep violet color.
E161j	Astaxanthin	Red color.
E162	Beetroot Red, Betanin	Red color; stemmed from beets; no adverse effects are known. Approved in the EU.
E163	Anthocyanins	pH dependent (Red, green and purple ranges color) matter of flowers and plants; seems safe. Approved in the EU.
E164	Saffron	Orange-red color. Approved in the US.
E170	Calcium carbonate	White color; mineral salt, used in toothpastes, white paint and cleaning powders; may be stemmed from rock mineral or animal bones; sometimes used to deacidify wines and firm canned fruit and veg.; toxic at "high doses". Approved in the EU.
E171	Titanium dioxide	White color; used in toothpaste and white paint, pollutes waterways; no adverse effects are known. Approved in the EU and in the US.
E172	Iron oxides and hydroxides	Brown color; toxic at "high doses". Approved in the EU. Approved in the US for sausage casings.
E173	Aluminium	Silver to grey color. Approved in the EU.
E174	Silver	Silver color. Approved in the EU.
E175	Gold	Gold color. Approved in the EU.
E180	Pigment Rubine, Lithol Rubine BK	Red color. Approved in the EU.
E181	Tannin	Brown color; clarifying agent in alcohol; stemmed from the nutgalls and twigs of oak trees; occurs naturally in tea
E182	Orcein, Orchil	Purple color.
E200-E299 - Preservatives
E200	Sorbic acid	Either obtained from berries or synthesized from ketene; possible skin irritant. Approved in the EU.
E201	Sodium sorbate	No known adverse effects.
E202	Potassium sorbate	No known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E203	Calcium sorbate	No known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E209	Heptyl p-hydroxybenzoate
E210	Benzoic acid	Also known as flowers of benzoin, phenlycarboxylic acid, carboxybenzene; added to alcoholic beverages, baked goods, cheeses, gum, condiments, frozen dairy, relishes, soft sweets, cordials and sugar substitutes; used in cosmetics, as an antiseptic in many cough medications and an antifungal in ointments; can cause asthma, especially in those dependents on steroid asthma medications, is also reputed to cause neurological disorders and to react with sulphur bisulphite (222), shown to provoke hyperactivity in children; obtained from Benzoin, a resin exuded by trees native to Asia. Approved in the EU.
E211	Sodium benzoate	Used as antiseptic, as a food preservative and to disguise taste, as of poor-quality food; orange soft drinks contain a high amount of it, up to 25mg per 250ml; also in milk and meat products, relishes and condiments, baked goods and lollipops; used in many oral medications including Actifed, Phenergan and Tylenol; known to causes nettle rash and aggravate asthma. Approved in the EU.
E212	Potassium benzoate	People with a history of allergies may show allergic reactions. Approved in the EU.
E213	Calcium benzoate	Approved in the EU.
E214	Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate	Approved in the EU.
E215	Sodium ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate	Approved in the EU.
E216	Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate	Possible contact allergen.
E217	Sodium propyl p-hydroxybenzoate
E218	Methylparaben (Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate)	Allergic reactions possible, mainly effecting the skin. Approved in the EU.
E219	Sodium methyl p-hydroxybenzoate	Approved in the EU.
E220	Sulphur dioxide	Stemmed from coal tar; all sulphur drugs are toxic and restricted in use (in USA, FDA prohibits their use on raw fruits and vegetables), produced by combustion of sulphur or gypsum; known to provoke asthma attacks and difficult to metabolize for those with impaired kidney function, also destroys vitamin B1; typical products are beer, soft drinks, dried fruit, juices, cordials, wine, vinegar, potato products. Approved in the EU.
E221	Sodium sulphite	Decontaminating agent used in fresh orange juice. Approved in the EU.
E222	Sodium hydrogen sulphite	Approved in the EU.
E223	Sodium metabisulphite	Approved in the EU.
E224	Potassium metabisulphite	Approved in the EU.
E225	Potassium sulphite
E226	Calcium sulphite	Approved in the EU.
E227	Calcium hydrogen sulphite	Approved in the EU.
E228	Potassium hydrogen sulphite	Approved in the EU.
E230	Biphenyl, Diphenyl	Can be used for agricultural purposes; typical products are citrus fruit. Approved in the EU.
E231	Orthophenyl phenol	Can be used for agricultural purposes; typical products are pears, carrots, peaches, plums, prunes, sweet potato, citrus fruit, pineapples, tomatoes, peppers, cherries, nectarines. Approved in the EU.
E232	Sodium orthophenyl phenol	Approved in the EU.
E233	Thiabendazole	Can be used for agricultural purposes, typical products are citrus fruits, apples, pears, potatoes, bananas, mushrooms, meat, milk.
E234	Nisin	Antibiotic stemmed from bacteria; found in beer, processed cheese products, tomato paste. Approved in the EU.
E235	Natamycin	Mould inhibitor stemmed from bacteria; sometimes used medically to treat candidiasis; can cause nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea and skin irritation; typical products are meat, cheese. Approved in the EU.
E236	Formic acid
E237	Sodium formate
E238	Calcium formate
E239	Hexamine (hexamethylene tetramine)	Approved in the EU.
E240	Formaldehyde
E242	Dimethyl dicarbonate	An antimicrobial that is added to juices and acts on microbes contained in the juice, it is also listed as an approved food-contact substance on the FDA inventory for use in non-carbonated juice beverages. Approved in the EU.
E249	Potassium nitrite	Color fixative and curing agent for meat; nitrites can effect the body's ability to carry oxygen, resulting in shortness of breath, dizziness and headaches; potential carcinogen; not permitted in foods for infant and young children. Approved in the EU.
E250	Sodium nitrite	May provoke hyperactivity and other adverse reactions, potentially carcinogenic, restricted in many countries, can combine with chemicals in stomach to form nitrosamine, the HACSG recommends to avoid it. Approved in the EU.
E251	Sodium nitrate	Also used in the manufacture of nitric acid, as a fertilizer and in fermented meat products. Approved in the EU.
E252	Potassium nitrate	May be stemmed from waste animal or vegetable matter; used in gunpowder, explosives and fertilizers, and in the preservation of meat; may provoke hyperactivity and other adverse reactions; potentially carcinogenic; restricted in many countries. Approved in the EU.
E260	Acetic acid	Acidity regulator; main component of vinegar, synthetically produced from wood fibres; used in pickles, chutneys, and sauces. Approved in the EU.
E261	Potassium acetate	Acidity regulator; should be avoided by people with impaired kidney function; typical products are sauces, pickles. Approved in the EU.
E262	Sodium acetate, Sodium diacetate	Acidity regulator, preservative; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E263	Calcium acetate	Acidity regulator; by product in the manufacture of wood alcohol; used to make acetic acid (vinegar) and in the production of dyers mordants. Approved in the EU.
E264	Ammonium acetate	Can cause nausea and vomiting
E265	Dehydroacetic acid
E266	Sodium dehydroacetate
E270	Lactic acid	Antioxidant; produced by heating and fermenting carbohydrates in milk whey, potatoes, cornstarch or molasses; difficult for babies to metabolize; used in sweets, dressings, soft drinks (sometimes beer) infant formulas and confectionery. Approved in the EU.
E280	Propionic acid	All propionates are thought to be linked with migraine headaches; propionates occur naturally in fermented foods, human perspiration and ruminants digestive tract, also can be stemmed commercially from ethylene and carbon monoxide or propionaldehyde or natural gas or fermented wood pulp; produced when bacteria decompose fibre; commonly used in bread and flour products. Approved in the EU.
E281	Sodium propionate	May be linked to migraines, typical products are flour products. Approved in the EU.
E282	Calcium propionate	Approved in the EU.
E283	Potassium propionate	Approved in the EU.
E290	Carbon dioxide	Acidity regulator; stemmed from lime manufacture; may increase the effect of alcohol; typical products are wine, soft drinks, confectionery. Approved in the EU.
E296	Malic acid	Acidity regulator; stemmed from fruit or synthetic; infants and young children should avoid it. Approved in the EU.
E297	Fumaric acid	Acidity regulator; stemmed from plants of the genus Fumaria esp. F.officianalis or from the fermentation of glucose with fungi; flavor, acidify, as an antioxidant or raising agent used in soft drinks and cake mixes. Approved in the EU.
E300-E399 - Antioxidants, acidity regulators
E300	Ascorbic acid	Antioxidant; "vitamin C"; may be made synthetically from glucose, naturally occurs in fruit and vegetables; added to products as diverse as cured meat, breakfast cereals, frozen fish and wine. Approved in the EU.
E301	Sodium ascorbate	Antioxidant; sodium salt of vitamin C. Approved in the EU.
E302	Calcium ascorbate	Antioxidant; vitamin C, may increase the formation of calcium oxalate stones. Approved in the EU.
E303	Potassium ascorbate	Antioxidant; potassium salt of vitamin C.
E304	Ascorbyl palmitate, Ascorbyl stearate	Antioxidant; fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid, same function as E300. Approved in the EU.
E306,  E307, E308,  E309	Tocopherols, alpha-,gamma-,delta-	Antioxidant; "vitamin E"; found in many oils vegetable, including soy, wheat germ, rice germ, cottonseed, maize; works as an antioxidant for fatty acids and tissue fats, preventing vitamin A from oxidation; used in margarine and salad dressings. Approved in the EU.
E310	Propyl gallate	Antioxidant; used to prevent rancidity in oily substances; stemmed from nutgalls; may cause gastric or skin irritation, gallates are not permitted in foods for infants and small children because of their known tendency to cause the blood disorder, methemoglobinemia; used in oils, margarine, lard and salad dressings, sometimes used in packaging. Approved in the EU.
E311	Octyl gallate	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E312	Dodecyl gallate	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E313	Ethyl gallate	Antioxidant.
E314	Guaiac resin	Antioxidant.
E315	Erythorbic acid	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E316	Sodium erythorbate	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E 317	Erythorbin acid	Antioxidant; produced from sucrose.
E 318	Sodium erythorbin	Antioxidant; produced from E317.
E319	tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E320	Butylated hydroxy-anisole (BHA)	Antioxidant; petroleum derivative, retards spoilage because of oxidation; used in edible oils, chewing gum, fats, margarine, nuts, instant potato products, polyethylene food wraps; not permitted in infant foods, can provoke an allergic reaction in some people, may trigger hyperactivity and other intolerance; serious concerns over carcinogenicity and estrogenic effects, in large doses caused tumors in lab animals, banned in Japan in 1958, official committees of experts recommended that it be banned in the UK, however because of industry pressure it was not banned, McDonald's eliminated BHT from their US products by 1986. Approved in the EU.
E321	Butylated hydroxy-toluene (BHT)	Antioxidant; petroleum derivative; see E320. Approved in the EU.
E322	Lecithin	Emulsifier; emulsifier stemmed from soy beans, egg yolks, peanuts, corn or animal resources; non toxic but overdose can upset the stomach, kill the appetite and cause profuse sweating; used to allow combination of oils in margarine, chocolate, mayonnaise, milk powder; must be chosen vegetable type. Approved in the EU.
E323	Anoxomer	Antioxidant.
E324	Ethoxyquin	Antioxidant.
E325	Sodium lactate	Acidity regulator; stemmed from milk (lactic acid); may contain pork rennin or whey in process, young children with lactose intolerance may show adverse reactions. Approved in the EU.
E326	Potassium lactate	Acidity regulator; see 325. Approved in the EU.
E327	Calcium lactate	Acidity regulator; see 325. Approved in the EU.
E328	Ammonium lactate	Acidity regulator; see 325.
E329	Magnesium lactate	Acidity regulator; see 325.
E330	Citric acid	Acidity regulator; food acid, naturally stemmed from citrus fruit, used in biscuits, canned fish, cheese and processed cheese products, infant formulas, cake and soup mixes, rye bread, soft drinks, fermented meat products. Approved in the EU.
E331	Sodium citrates	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E332	Potassium citrates	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E333	Calcium citrates	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E334	Tartaric acid	Acidity regulator; food acid, obtained from unripe fruit, grape juice; no known adverse effects in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E335	Sodium tartrates	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E336	Potassium tartrates	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E337	Sodium potassium tartrate	Acidity regulator; food acid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E338	Orthophosphoric acid	Acidity regulator; food acid, stemmed from phosphate ore; used in cheese products; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E339	Sodium phosphates	Antioxidant; mineral salt, used as a laxative and a fixing agent in textile dyeing; high intakes may upset the calcium/phosphorus equilibrium. Approved in the EU.
E340	Potassium phosphates	Antioxidant; see 339. Approved in the EU.
E341	Calcium phosphates	Anti-caking agent, firming agent; mineral salt found in rocks and bones; used in medicines as an antacid and polishing agent in enamels. Approved in the EU.
E342	Ammonium phosphates
E343	Magnesium phosphates	Anti-caking agent; essential mineral, anti caking agent found in salt substitutes. Approved in the EU. This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives.
E344	Lecitin citrate	Acidity regulator.
E345	Magnesium citrate	Acidity regulator.
E349	Ammonium malate	Acidity regulator.
E350	Sodium malates	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E351	Potassium malate	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E352	Calcium malates	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E353	Metatartaric acid	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E354	Calcium tartrate	Emulsifier; seems safe. Approved in the EU.
E355	Adipic acid	Acidity regulator; food acid from the root adipose. Approved in the EU.
E357	Potassium adipate	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E359	Ammonium adipate	Acidity regulator.
E363	Succinic acid	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E365	Sodium fumarate	Acidity regulator; food acid, salt of fumaric acid (stemmed from plants of the genus Fumaria esp. F.officianalis).
E366	Potassium fumarate	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects.
E367	Calcium fumarate	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects.
E368	Ammonium fumarate	Acidity regulator.
E370	1,4-Heptonolactone	Acidity regulator.
E380	Tri-ammonium citrate	Acidity regulator; may interfere with liver and pancreas function. Approved in the EU.
E381	Ammonium ferric citrates	Acidity regulator; essential mineral, food acid stemmed from citric acid; used as a dietary iron supplement in breakfast cereals and dietary formulas.
E383	Calcium glycerylphosphate	Acidity regulator.
E384	Isopropyl citrate	Acidity regulator.
E385	Calcium disodium EDTA	Sequestrant. Approved in the EU.
E386	Disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetate (Disodium EDTA)	Sequestrant.
E387	Oxystearin	Stabiliser.
E388	Thiodipropionic acid
E389	Dilauryl thiodipropionate
E390	Distearyl thiodipropionate
E391	Phytic acid
E392	Extracts of rosemary	Approved in the EU.
E399	Calcium lactobionate
E400-E499 - Thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers
E400	Alginic acid	Emulsifier; stemmed from seaweed; used in custard mix, cordial, flavored milk, ice blocks, thickened cream and yoghurt; no known adverse effects in small quantities, large quantities can inhibit the absorption of some nutrients. Approved in the EU.
E401	Sodium alginate	Emulsifier; see 400. Approved in the EU.
E402	Potassium alginate	Emulsifier; see 400. Approved in the EU.
E403	Ammonium alginate	Emulsifier; see 400. Approved in the EU.
E404	Calcium alginate	Emulsifier; see 400. Approved in the EU.
E405	Propylene glycol alginate	Emulsifier; vegetable gum, stemmed from petroleum; see separate entry. Approved in the EU.
E406	Agar	Stabiliser; vegetable gum stemmed from red seaweed; sometimes used as a laxative, found in manufactured meats and ice cream
E407	Carrageenan	Emulsifier; a fibre extracted from seaweed, it has recently been linked with cancer because it may become contaminated when ethylene oxide is added to an inferior product, this results in ethylene chlorohydrin forming, a highly carcinogenic compound; linked to toxic hazards, including ulcers and cancer; the most serious concerns relate to degraded carrageenan, which is not a permitted additive; however, native carrageenan, which is used, may become degraded in the gut. Approved in the EU.
E407a	Processed eucheuma seaweed	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E408	Bakers yeast glycan
E409	Arabinogalactan
E410	Locust bean gum	Emulsifier; stemmed from Carob or Locust bean tree Ceratonia silique; used in lollipops, cordials, essences, some flour products, dressings, fruit juice drinks; frequently used as a caffeine-free chocolate substitute; may lower cholesterol levels. Approved in the EU.
E411	Oat gum	Stabiliser.
E412	Guar gum	Stabiliser; stemmed from the seeds of Cyamoposis tetragonolobus of Indian origin; fed to cattle in the US; can cause nausea, flatulence and cramps, may reduced cholesterol levels. Approved in the EU.
E413	Tragacanth	Emulsifier; resin form the tree Astragalus gummier; used in foods, drugs including nasal solutions, elixirs and tablets; also used as a binder in cosmetics; possible contact allergy. Approved in the EU.
E414	Acacia	Emulsifier; stemmed from the sap of Acacia Senegal; easily broken down by the human digestive system; possible allergen, soothes irritations of mucous membranes. Approved in the EU.
E415	Xanthan gum	Emulsifier; stemmed from the fermentation of corn sugar with a bacterium. Approved in the EU.
E416	Karaya gum	Emulsifier; stemmed from the tree Sterculia urens; often used with Carob (E 410), in ice cream, custard and sweets, as a filler for its capability to multiply its volume by 100 times with the addition of water; possible allergen. Approved in the EU.
E417	Tara gum	Emulsifier; stemmed from the tara bush, Caesalpinia Spinosa is indigenous to Equator and Peru and is grown in Kenya. Approved in the EU.
E418	Gellan gum	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
R419	Gum ghatti	Emulsifier.
E420	Sorbitol	Artificial sweetener and humectant; stemmed from glucose, either obtained from berries or synthesized; used in lollipops, dried fruit, pastries, confectionery, low calorie foods, pharmaceutical syrups and ophthalmic preparations and is the seventh most widely used preservative in cosmetics; not permitted in foods for infants and young children, can cause gastric disturbance. Approved in the EU.
E421	Mannitol	Artificial sweetener and humectant; stemmed from seaweed or the manna ash tree; possible allergen, not permitted in infant foods because of its ability to cause diarrhea and kidney dysfunction, also may cause nausea, vomiting; typical products are low calorie foods. Approved in the EU.
E422	Glycerol	Humectant and sweetener; oily colorless alcohol; stemmed by decomposition of natural fats with alkalis; usually as a by-product of soap making using animal fat or vegetable oil; can be obtained from petroleum products sometimes synthesized from propylene or fermented from sugar; used in flexible coatings on sausages and cheeses, also in crystallized and dried fruit, liqueurs and vodka. Glycerin has been shown to protect against DNA damage induced by tumor promoters, ultraviolet lights and radiation, presumably via free radical scavenging; large quantities can cause headaches, thirst, nausea and high blood sugar levels. typical products are liquors, confectionery, dried fruit, low calorie foods. Approved in the EU.
E424	Curdlan
E425	Konjac	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU. May not be used in confectionery owing to choking risk.
E426	Soybean hemicellulose	Approved in the EU.
E427	Cassia gum	Approved in the EU.
E429	Peptones
E430	Polyoxyethene (8) stearate	Stabiliser.
E431	Polyoxyethene (40) stearate	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E432	Polysorbate 20	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E433	Polysorbate 80	Emulsifier; stemmed from animal fatty acids; used as synthetic flavorings, surfactants, defoaming agents and dough conditioners; may increase the absorption of fat-soluble substances. Approved in the EU.
E434	Polysorbate 40	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E435	Polysorbate 60	Emulsifier; see 433. Approved in the EU.
E436	Polysorbate 65	Emulsifier; see 433. Approved in the EU.
E440a	Pectin	Emulsifier; naturally occurring in the skins of apples; used to thicken jams, jellies and sauces; large quantities may cause temporary flatulence or intestinal discomfort. Approved in the EU.
E440b	Aminated pectin	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E441	Gelatin	Geling agent; possible allergen, may contain 220, asthmatics and people allergic to sulphites beware.
E442	Ammonium phosphatides	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E443	Brominated vegetable oil	Emulsifier.
E444	Sucrose acetate isobutyrate	Emulsifier.
E445	Glycerol esters of wood rosins	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E446	Succistearin
E450	Diphosphates	Emulsifier; phosphates in food are a great group of substances; are being used in foods such as powdered milk or cream, processed cheese, fish, dried fruit, jam, marmalade, sauce, jelly, soft drinks, chocolate, confections, and baby food; also used for making detergent; they are not as dangerous as public opinion; the activity of phosphates in case of hiperactivity of children is still unknown; high intakes may upset the calcium/phosphate equilibrium. Approved in the EU.
E451	Triphosphates	Emulsifier; see 450. Approved in the EU.
E452	Polyphosphates	Emulsifier; can alter the metabolytical activity in humans; in addition to modified starch, they may cause calcification of the pelvic region in rats; they intensify the activity of heavy metals making them easier to cross the intestine wall; they may contain a lot of impurities; in Japan, a group of children were intoxicated with arsine as impurity of ortophosphate used in food. Approved in the EU.
E460	Cellulose	Emulsifier;  no adverse effects known. Approved in the EU.
E461	Methyl cellulose	Emulsifier; can cause flatulence, distension, intestinal obstruction. Approved in the EU.
E463	Hydroxypropyl cellulose	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E464	Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E465	Ethyl methyl cellulose	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E466	Carboxy methyl cellulose, Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E467	Ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose
E468	Crosslinked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Croscarmellose)	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU. This additive is under discussion and may be included in a future amendment to the Directive on miscellaneous additives.
E469	Sodium caseinate	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E470	Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium salts of fatty acids	Anti-caking agent. Approved in the EU.
E471	Mono & di glycerides of fatty acids	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E472	Fatty acid esters of glycerides	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E473	Sucrose esters of fatty acids	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E474	Sucroglycerides	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E475	Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E476	Polyglycerol polyricinoleate	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E477	Propylene glycol esters of fatty acids	Emulsifier; stemmed from petroleum; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E478	Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1	Emulsifier.
E479b	Thermally oxidized soy bean oil interacted with mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E480	Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate	Emulsifier; awaiting results of studies.
E481	Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E482	Calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E483	Stearyl tartrate	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E484	Stearyl citrate	Emulsifier.
E485	Sodium stearoyl fumarate	Emulsifier.
E486	Calcium stearoyl fumarate	Emulsifier.
E487	Sodium laurylsulphate	Emulsifier.
E488	Ethoxylated Mono- and Di-Glycerides	Emulsifier.
E489	Methyl glucoside-coconut oil ester	Emulsifier.
E490	Propane-1,2-diol
E491	Sorbitan mono stearate	Emulsifier; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E492	Sorbitan tristearate	Emulsifier; may increase absorption of fat-soluble substances. Approved in the EU.
E493	Sorbitan monolaurate	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E494	Sorbitan mono-oleate	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E495	Sorbitan monopalmitate	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E496	Sorbitan trioleate	Emulsifier.
E497	Polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene polymers
E498	Partial polyglycerol esters of polycondensed fatty acids of castor oil
E500-E599 - Acidity regulators, anti-caking agents
E500	Sodium carbonates	Raising agent; no known adverse effects in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E501	Potassium carbonates	Acidity regulator; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E503	Ammonium carbonates	Acidity regulator; irritant to mucous membranes. Approved in the EU.
E504	Magnesium carbonate	Acidity regulator; medically used as an antacid and laxative. Approved in the EU.
E505	Ferrous carbonate	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E507	Hydrochloric acid	Acidity regulator; safe in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E508	Potassium chloride	Large quantities can cause gastric ulceration. Approved in the EU.
E509	Calcium chloride	Firming agent; stemmed from brine. Approved in the EU.
E510	Ammonium chloride	Improving agent; should be avoided by people with impaired liver or kidney function. Typical products are flour products. Approved in the EU.
E511	Magnesium chloride	Firming agent; magnesium is an essential mineral. Approved in the EU.
E512	Stannous chloride	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E513	Sulphuric acid	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E514	Sodium sulphates	Acidity regulator; may upset the body's water balance. Approved in the EU.
E515	Potassium sulphates	No known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E516	Calcium sulphate	Stemmed from limestone. Approved in the EU.
E517	Ammonium sulphate	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E518	Magnesium sulphate	Firming agent; a laxative.
E519	Copper sulphate	Preservative.
E520	Aluminium sulphate	Firming agent. Approved in the EU.
E521	Aluminium sodium sulphate	Firming agent. Approved in the EU.
E522	Aluminium potassium sulphate	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E523	Aluminium ammonium sulphate	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E524	Sodium hydroxide	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E525	Potassium hydroxide	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E526	Calcium hydroxide	Firming agent; no adverse effects in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E527	Ammonium hydroxide	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E528	Magnesium hydroxide	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E529	Calcium oxide	Improving agent; safe in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E530	Magnesium oxide	Anti-caking agent. Approved in the EU.
E535	Sodium ferrocyanide	Anti-caking agent; no adverse effects known. Approved in the EU.
E536	Potassium ferrocyanide	Anti-caking agent; by-product of coal gas production; low toxicity. Approved in the EU.
E537	Ferrous hexacyanomanganate	Anti-caking agent.
E538	Calcium ferrocyanide	Anti-caking agent. Approved in the EU.
E539	Sodium thiosulphate	Antioxidant.
E540	Dicalcium diphosphate	Emulsifier.
E541	Sodium aluminium phosphate, Acidic	Emulsifier. Approved in the EU.
E542	Bone phosphate	Anti-caking agent; stemmed from bones; used in dried milk for coffee machines
E543	Calcium sodium polyphosphate	Emulsifier.
E544	Calcium polyphosphates	Emulsifier.
E545	Ammonium polyphosphates	Emulsifier.
E550	Sodium silicates	Anti-caking agent.
E551	Silicon dioxide (Silica)	Anti-caking agent; no adverse effects are known in food use. Approved in the EU.
E552	Calcium silicate	Anti-caking agent; stemmed from limestone and diatomaceous earth (the silicified skeletons of diatoms, a single celled plankton), antacid; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E553a	Magnesium silicates	Anti-caking agent. Approved in the EU.
E553b	Talc	Anti-caking agent; has been linked to stomach cancer, typical products are polished rice, chocolate, confectionery. Approved in the EU.
E554	Sodium aluminium silicate	Anti-caking agent; used in salt, dried milk substitutes and flours; aluminium is known to cause placental problems in pregnancy and has been linked to Alzheimer's. Approved in the EU.
E556	Calcium aluminium silicate	Anti-caking agent; stemmed from minerals; used in milk powders; see E554. Approved in the EU.
E558	Bentonite	Anti-caking agent; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E559	Aluminium silicate (Kaolin)	Anti-caking agent; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E560	Potassium silicate	Anti-caking agent.
E561	Vermiculite
E562	Sepiolite
E563	Sepiolitic clay
E565	Lignosulphonates
E566	Natrolite-phonolite
E570	Stearic acid	Anti-caking agent; possibly of animal origin; see stearates. Approved in the EU.
E572	Magnesium stearate	Anti-caking agent; no known adverse effects in food use.
E574	Gluconic acid	Acidity regulator. Approved in the EU.
E575	Glucono delta-lactone	Sequestrant; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E576	Sodium gluconate	Sequestrant. Approved in the EU.
E577	Potassium gluconate	Sequestrant; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E578	Calcium gluconate	Firming agent; no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E579	Ferrous gluconate	Food coloring agent; stemmed from iron and glucose; used in olives, iron supplements; safe in small amounts. Approved in the EU.
E580	Magnesium gluconate
E585	Ferrous lactate	Food coloring agent. Approved in the EU.
E586	4-Hexylresorcinol	Antioxidant. Approved in the EU.
E598	Synthetic calcium aluminates
E599	Perlite
E600-E699 - Flavor enhancers
E620	Glutamic acid	Flavor enhancer; salt substitute; amino acid present in many animal and vegetable proteins, stemmed commercially from bacteria; might cause similar problems as MSG(E621), young children should avoid it. Approved in the EU.
E621	Monosodium glutamate (MSG)	Flavor enhancer; stemmed from the fermentation of molasses, salt substitute; adverse effects appear in some asthmatic people, not permitted in foods for infants and young children; typical products are canned vegetables, canned tuna, dressings, many frozen foods
E622	Monopotassium glutamate	Flavor enhancer; can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps; typical products are low sodium salt substitutes. Approved in the EU.
E623	Calcium diglutamate	Flavor enhancer; salt substitute, no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E624	Monoammonium glutamate	Flavor enhancer; salt substitute, no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E625	Magnesium diglutamate	Flavor enhancer; salt substitute, no known adverse effects. Approved in the EU.
E626	Guanylic acid	Flavor enhancer; may trigger gout. Approved in the EU.
E627	Disodium guanylate	Flavor enhancer; isolated from sardines or yeast extract; may trigger gout, not permitted in foods for infants and young children. Approved in the EU.
E629	Calcium guanylate	Flavor enhancer; may trigger gout. Approved in the EU.
E630	Inosinic acid	Flavor enhancer. Approved in the EU.
E631	Disodium inosinate	Flavor enhancer; may be prepared from meat or sardines; may trigger gout, not permitted in foods for infants and young children. Approved in the EU.
E633	Calcium inosinate	Flavor enhancer; may trigger gout. Approved in the EU.
E634	Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides	Flavor enhancer. Approved in the EU.
E635	Disodium 5'-ribonucleotide	Flavor enhancer; may be associated with itchy skin rashes up to 30 hours after ingestion; rashes may vary from mild to dramatic; the reaction is dose-related and cumulative, some individuals are more sensitive than others; typical foods include flavored chips, instant noodles and party pies. Approved in the EU.
E640	Glycine and its sodium salt	Flavor enhancer. Approved in the EU.
E650	Zinc acetate	Flavor enhancer. Approved in the EU.
E900-E999 - Glazing agents and sweeteners
E900	Dimethyl polysiloxane	Anti-caking agent; silicone based. Approved in the EU.
E901	Beeswaxes	Glazing agent; used to wax fruit; see bee products; occasionally causes allergic reactions. Approved in the EU.
E902	Candelilla wax	Glazing agent. Approved in the EU.
E903	Carnauba wax	Glazing agent; stemmed from a South American palm; used in cosmetics and inks, and to wax fruit; occasionally causes allergic reactions. Approved in the EU.
E904	Shellac	Glazing agent; stemmed from insects; occasionally causes irritations of the skin. Approved in the EU.
E905	Paraffins	Approved in the EU.
E905a	Mineral oil	Anti-foaming agent.
E905b	Petrolatum
E905c	Petroleum wax	Glazing agent.
E906	Gum benzoic	Flavor enhancer.
E907	Crystalline wax	Glazing agent.
E908	Rice bran wax	Glazing agent.
E909	Spermaceti wax	Glazing agent.
E910	Wax esters	Glazing agent.
E911	Methyl esters of fatty acids	Glazing agent.
E912	Montanic acid esters	Glazing agent. Approved in the EU.
E913	Lanolin	Glazing agent; stemmed from sheep wool.
E914	Oxidized polyethylene wax	Glazing agent. Approved in the EU.
E915	Esters of colophony	Glazing agent.
E916	Calcium iodate
E917	Potassium iodate
E918	Nitrogen oxides
E919	Nitrosyl chloride
E920	L-Cystein	Improving agent; flour treatment agent stemmed from animal hair and chicken feathers. Approved in the EU.
E921	L-Cystin	Improving agent; see E920.
E922	Potassium persulphate	Improving agent.
E923	Ammonium persulphate	Improving agent.
E924	Potassium bromate	Improving agent; large quantities can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain. Typical products are flour products.
E924b	Calcium bromate	Improving agent.
E925	Chlorine	Preservative, bleach, improving agent; destroys nutrients, carcinogen, in some areas tab water is contaminated with it, to make it 'safer' to drink. Typical products are flour products.
E926	Chlorine dioxide	Bleach; see 925.
E927a	Azodicarbonamide	Improving agent.
E927b	Carbamide	Improving agent. Approved in the EU.
E928	Benzoyl peroxide	Bleach; approved by FDA for bleaching the carotenoids in refined flours; asthmatics and people with a history of allergies must beware, see 210.
E929	Acetone peroxide
E930	Calcium peroxide	Bleach.
E938	Argon	Packaging gas. Approved in the EU.
E939	Helium	Packaging gas. Approved in the EU.
E940	Dichlorodifluoromethane	Packaging gas.
E941	Nitrogen	Propellant; used in freezing and vacuum packing; seems safe. Approved in the EU.
E942	Nitrous oxide	Propellant; seems safe in small quantities. Approved in the EU.
E943a	Butane	Propellant. Approved in the EU.
E943b	Isobutane	Propellant. Approved in the EU.
E944	Propane	Propellant. Approved in the EU.
E945	Chloropentafluoroethane	Propellant.
E946	Octafluorocyclobutane	Propellant.
E948	Oxygen	Packaging gas.
E949	Hydrogen	Packaging gas. Approved in the EU.
E950	Acesulfame potassium (Acesulfame K)	Sweetener; high-intensity, non-caloric sweetener; it is about 200 times sweeter than sugar; discovered in 1967 by Hoechst AG; also called Sunett as brand name; used for baked goods, frozen desserts, candies, dairy products, confectionery, pharmaceuticals, oral hygiene, and, most recently, beverages; has not been approved for use in such a wide range of foods; The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) includes the artificial sweeteners aspartame, saccharine, and acesulfame K as part of their list of the Ten Worst Additives; all three of these sweeteners have been found to cause cancer in animals and may increase your risk of cancer. Approved in the EU.
E951	Aspartame	Sweetener;  too many adverse effects possible to list, some people are allergic to aspartame, migraine headaches a common reaction in these people. Approved in the EU.
E952	Cyclamic acid	Sweetener; calcium & sodium cyclamate, artificial sweetener; known to cause migraines and other reactions, can be carcinogenic, caused damage to rats testicles and mouse embryos in tests, banned in the US and UK due its links with cancer. Approved in the EU.
E953	Isomalt	Sweetener; sugar-free sweetener; a mixture of two disaccharide alcohols gluco mannitol and gluco sorbitol; it is being used for several years in products such as hard candies, toffee, lollipops, fudge, wafers, cough drops and throat lozenges; extensive research has been conducted on the effect of isomalt on blood glucose and insulin levels; this research shows that, after ingestion of isomalt, blood glucose and insulin values do not differ significantly from baseline levels in people who have either Type I or Type II diabetes. Approved in the EU.
E954	Saccharines	Sweetener; calcium & sodium saccharin; artificial sweetener stemmed from toluene (a known carcinogen); banned in 1977 in the US, but reinstated subject to strict labelling starting: Use of this product may be hazardous to your health, this product contains saccharin which has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Approved in the EU.
E955	Sucralose	Sweetener; artificial sweetener; available for several years in many parts of the world, it was only approved for sale in the US in early 1998; it is now available in a few products, and is finally becoming generally available in stores as a sweetener for table and cooking. Approved in the EU.
E956	Alitame	Sweetener.
E957	Thaumatin	Flavor enhancer; a protein stemmed from the tropical plant Thaumococcus danielli; used to sweeten wines, bread and fruit. Approved in the EU.
E958	Glycyrrhizin	Flavor enhancer.
E959	Neohesperidine dihydrochalcone	Flavor enhancer. Approved in the EU.
E960	Steviol glycosides	Sweetener. Approved in the EU.
E961	Neotame	Sweetener. Approved in the EU.
E962	Aspartame-acesulfame salt	Sweetener. Approved in the EU.
E965	Maltitol	Humectant; starch decomposed with digestive enzymes; used in confectionery, dried fruits, low-joule foods; laxative in high concentrations. Approved in the EU.
E966	Lactitol	Sweetener. Approved in the EU.
E967	Xylitol	Sweetener; humectant, found in raspberries, plums, lettuce and endives, though produced for commercial purposes from wood pulp; caused kidney stones and a diuretic effect on test rats: a waste of time and the lives of the rats, for the JEFCA in 1983 ruled the tests invalid relative to humans, the symptoms caused by "physiological disturbances" in the rats, we can only imagine what conditions led to upset rats; used in low-joule foods and carbohydrate modified sweets, ice cream and jams. Approved in the EU.
E968	Erythritol	Humectant. Approved in the EU.
E999	Quillaia extract	Foaming agent, emulsifier, natural surfactant; stemmed from chilean soap bark tree (Quillaia Saponaria); used in beer and soda; known to promote healing and reduce excessive oiliness in the skin. Approved in the EU.
E1000-E1599 - Additional chemicals
E1000	Cholic acid	Emulsifier.
E1001	Choline salts	Emulsifier.
E1100	Amylase	Stabiliser, flavour enhancer; stemmed from mold mushroom or pig pancreas
E1101	Proteases	Stabiliser, flavour enhancer.
E1102	Glucose oxidase	Antioxidant.
E1103	Invertase	Stabiliser. Approved in the EU.
E1104	Lipases
E1105	Lysozyme	Preservative.
E1200	Polydextrose	Stabiliser, thickening agent, humectant, carrier; seems safe in small doses. Approved in the EU.
E1201	Polyvinylpyrrolidone, PVP	Stabiliser; dispersing agent, coating for tablets; used in artificial sweeteners. Approved in the EU.
E1202	Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, PVPP	Stabiliser; clarifying agent for wine and beer (for removing phenolic compounds), color and colloidal stabilizer. Approved in the EU.
E1203	Polyvinyl alcohol	Approved in the EU.
E1204	Pullulan	Approved in the EU.
E1400	Dextrin (Dextrins, roasted starch white and yellow)	Thickening agent.
E1401	Modified starch (Acid-treated starch)	Thickening agent.
E1402	Alkaline modified starch	Thickening agent.
E1403	Bleached starch	Thickening agent.
E1404	Oxidized starch	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1405	Enzyme treated starch
E1410	Monostarch phosphate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1411	Distarch glycerol	Emulsifier.
E1412	Distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetasphosphate; esterified with phosphorus oxychloride	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1413	Phosphated distarch phosphate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1414	Acetylated distarch phosphate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1420	Starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1421	Starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate	Thickening agent.
E1422	Acetylated distarch adipate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1423	Acetylated distarch glycerol	Thickening agent.
E1430	Distarch glycerine	Thickening agent.
E1440	Hydroxy propyl starch	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1441	Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerine	Thickening agent.
E1442	Hydroxy propyl distarch phosphate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1443	Hydroxy propyl distarch glycerol
E1450	Starch sodium octenyl succinate	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1451	Acetylated oxidised starch	Thickening agent. Approved in the EU.
E1452	Starch aluminium octenyl succinate	Approved in the EU.
E1501	Benzylated hydrocarbons
E1502	Butane-1, 3-diol
E1503	Castor oil	Resolving agent.
E1504	Ethyl acetate	Flavor solvent.
E1505	Triethyl acetate	Foam stabilizer; part becomes alcohol in the body. Approved in the EU.
E1510	Ethanol	Alcohol.
E1516	Glyceryl monoacetate	Flavor solvent.
E1517	Glycerol acetates	Flavor solvent; stemmed from glycerol; used to coat fresh fruit in the US
E1518	Glyceryl triacetate or triacetin	Humectant. Approved in the EU.
E1519	Benzyl alcohol
E1520	Propylene glycol	Humectant, wetting agent, dispersing agent, petroleum based; its glycerin like taste has made it popular for children's medications and other elixirs; used in many topical creams and ointments, cosmetics, hair products and deodorants; has been linked with fatal heart attacks (when given intravenously), central nervous system depression and cosmetic or pharmaceutical contact dermatitis. Approved in the EU.
E1521	Polyethylene glycol 8000	Approved in the EU.
E1525	Hydroxyethyl cellulose	Thickening agent.