What is an E number? Food additive codes explained
An E number is the code identifying a substance authorised as a food additive in the European Union (e.g. E330 citric acid). In the EU, food additives are governed by Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008; in Turkey, by the Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Food Additives published in the Official Gazette No. 28693 of 30 June 2013. The annexes of this legislation list the authorised additives and the foods and levels in which they may be used.
How are E numbers grouped?
Numbers are broadly ordered by function — a convention rather than a strict rule:
- E100s: colours
- E200s: preservatives
- E300s: antioxidants and acidity regulators
- E400s: thickeners, gelling agents, stabilisers and emulsifiers
An additive can have more than one function; what counts is the functional class and conditions of use set out in the legislation.
Examples
- E200 — sorbic acid (preservative)
- E330 — citric acid (acidity regulator)
- E415 — xanthan gum (thickener, stabiliser)
- E422 — glycerol (humectant)
How are additives labelled?
Under Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, additives in the list of ingredients are designated by the name of their functional class followed by their specific name or E number — for example “preservative: sorbic acid” or “preservative: E200”.
What an E number does not tell you
An E number alone does not indicate purity or grade; purity criteria for additives are defined in separate specification legislation. In purchasing, giving the CAS number and specification (TDS) together with the product name and E number helps ensure you receive the right product.
Sources: EUR-Lex — Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, EUR-Lex — Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, Turkish Official Gazette, 30.06.2013, No. 28693.