E-Numbers and Additives

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This section includes information about lots of additives.

You can look one up using the E-Number, if you know it.

If you know the name you can look it up in the alphabetical list

 

E-Numbers

What are E-numbers?

E-numbers are simply a systematic way of identifying different food additives. Before a food additive is given an 'E' number it must first be cleared by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This shows that it can be used safely in foods. An 'E' number is only given to an additive that has passed all the safety checks.

Use the list below to find out more about an E-number or food additive.

I know the E-Number Click to choose E100 - 199 E200 - 299 E300 - 399 E400 - 499 E500 - 599 E600 - 699 E900 - 1500

I know the name Click to choose A to D E to H I to L M to P Q to Z

This table shows how the E numbers refer to the different types of additives:

E-Numbers for Types of Additives

Series	Function	Example
E100	Colours	E160a	Carotene
E200	Preservatives	E234	Nisin
E300	Antioxidants	E307	Alpha-tocopherol
E400 +	Miscellaneous	E440 E501	Pectin (stabiliser) Sodium bicarbonate (raising agent)