Haraam E-Numbers
Simply put, E- numbers are the code numbers used to identify food additives which are officially approved a safe to consume. While additives, liaison with European Union legislation is a must as most additives are acceptable in specific foods with certain quantitative limits. Additives must be assessed for safety before they can be used in food to ensure the science on additives is strictly reviewed, the law strictly enforced, and the action taken where problems are found. Whilst some additives with a common code such as E471, can be either of animal or plant origin and this latter type needs to be investigated on a case-by-case basis per product/ manufacturer. Most of the additives are however suitable. The E-numbers are categorized as follows:
E100-199 Food colors | E200-299 Preservatives |
E300-399 Antioxidants, phosphates, and complexing agents | E400-499 Thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers |
E500-599 Salts and related compounds | E600-699 Flavour enhancers |
E700-899 Not used for food additives (used for feed additives) | E900-999 Surface coating agents, gases, sweeteners |
E1000-1399 Miscellaneous additives | E1400-1499 Starch derivatives |
Code | Name | Alternative Name | Function | Status | Source | Health Info | Uses | Other Uses |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
E120 | Carminic Acid | Carmine of Cochineal; C.I. 75470; Natural Red 4 | Colouring | Haraam | From insect Cochineal | Red, Asthma, anaphylaxis (possibly lifethreatening), hay fever, hives, aspirin sensitive people may wish to avoid | Some alcoholic drinks, red apple sauce, pie fillings, meats, baked goods, yoghurt | Cosmetics, red eye make-up, shampoo, mascara |
Code | Name | Alternative Name | Function | Status | Source | Health Info | Uses | Other Uses |