THE

CHEMICAL
MAZE
SHOPPING COMPANION
Revised and updated 4th edition

Your guide to

FOOD ADDITIVES
and

COSMETIC INGREDIENTS
BILL STATHAM
POSSIBILITY.COM
First published April 2001 as The Chemical Maze
2nd edition published August 2002
3rd edition published September 2005
This edition published August 2008 by POSSIBILITY.COM
Copyright © 2008 text by Bill Statham
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored
in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means: electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of the publishers and copyright holder.
National Library of Australia Cataloguing-in-Publication entry:
Author: Statham, Bill
Title: The chemical maze shopping companion: your guide to food
additives and cosmetic ingredients / Bill Statham;
editor, Peter Ascot
Edition: 4th ed.
ISBN: 9780957853560 (pbk.)
Notes: Bibliography.
Subjects: Food additives--Handbooks, manuals, etc.
Cosmetics--Handbooks, manuals, etc.
Chemicals--Handbooks, manuals, etc.
Other Authors/Contributors: Ascot, Peter.
Dewey Number: 664.06
Cover design by Kay Lancashire and Bill Statham
Edited by Peter Ascot
Produced in Australia by Hyde Park Press
Distributed by Earth Therapy; email: earth-therapy@adam.com.au
1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2
Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is
accurate and current at the time of publication. This book does not claim
to include all information about all chemicals used in foods, cosmetics and
personal care products. The author and the publisher disclaim liability for
any misuse or misunderstanding of any information contained herein and
disclaims liability for any loss, damage or injury, be it health, financial or
otherwise, suffered by any individual, group or organisation acting upon
or relying on information contained herein. A qualified health practitioner
should be consulted in all cases of ill-health.
 Contents

Preface iv
How to Use Your Guide 1
Introduction 3
Food Additives with INS Numbers 5
Part 1: Your Guide to Food Additives 13
Part 2: Your Guide to Cosmetic Ingredients 55
Glossary 160
Food Additives and Common Ailments 169
Bibliography 170
About the Author 172
Contact Information 172
 Preface
The three years since the publication of the 3rd edition of
The Chemical Maze Shopping Companion have seen a growing
awareness of what we are putting in our mouths and on our
skin. This has been reflected in sales of both this book and its
sister publication, The Chemical Maze Bookshelf Companion.
Over 90,000 copies of the ‘little pocket guide’ have been sold
in Australia and New Zealand over the last seven years. The
Chemical Maze is also published in the UK and North Amer-
ica, and there are currently five foreign language editions.

The 4th edition has been fully updated and revised with al-
most double the number of ingredients now contained in the
cosmetics section whilst maintaining the same convenient
pocket size as the 3rd edition.

There is also a table of common ailments along with food

additives that may trigger or exacerbate them. So if for ex-
ample you suffer from asthma, you may wish to avoid the
additives listed in the table.

The Chemical Maze Bookshelf Companion has also been revised

and updated to a second edition and includes a bonus section
on household products.

I hope that the information contained in this book helps you

along the path of health and wellbeing.

Bill Statham, 2008

iv
 How to Use Your Guide
This book is divided into two parts.

Part 1 provides a numerical list of food additives approved

for use in Australia and New Zealand. If you know the name
of a food additive you can find its code number in Food
Additives with INS Numbers on page 5. Code numbers pre-
fixed by the letter E annotate additives used in the European
Union and approved for use in Australia and New Zealand.

Part 2 lists in alphabetical order common ingredients that

may be found in cosmetic and personal care products.

A face code shows just how user-friendly each additive/

ingredient is, from safe and/or beneficial through to potentially
hazardous to health.

JJ 2 happy faces = safe and/or beneficial

J 1 happy face = safe for most people

K? 1 quizzical face = caution advised

L 1 sad face = best avoided
LL 2 sad faces = potentially hazardous to health

In addition to the face codes a shading system makes read-

ing the tables even simpler - the darker the shading, the
stronger the warning.
1
Note: The evaluation given is the opinion of the author
based on available information at the time of writing. See
the bibliography for a list of reference sources.

The codes shown are only a general guide, as individuals react

differently to chemical exposures. The type and severity of
reaction will depend on many factors. A few of these are: the
constitutional health of the person, the amounts to which
they are exposed and the period of exposure, the environ-
ment in which the person lives/works and the person’s age
and sex. However, it is recommended that only those prod-
ucts containing additives and ingredients that are safe and/
or beneficial or safe for most people as indicated by the happy
faces be chosen.

The tables also indicate whether the additive/ingredient has

been or may have been animal or petroleum derived, and
whether it may be a product of genetic modification (GM).

Other information given includes the usual function of the

additive/ingredient; its potential effects, be they beneficial
or detrimental to human health or the environment; and
possible uses. Terms and abbreviations are explained in the
glossary.

Where certain specific medical disorders are mentioned only

limited reference is made as to whether occurrence was in
animals or humans. Also, usually no reference is made to the
amounts or concentration of chemicals involved. Detailed
information such as this is far beyond the scope of this book
and the reader is directed to the bibliography if they wish to
find out more information.
2
 Introduction
In April 2008 the food regulating authority in the UK, the
Food Standards Agency (FSA), called for a ‘voluntary ban’
on a number of artificial colours in foods and beverages. This
followed in the wake of yet another government study dem-
onstrating a clear link between artificial additives and adverse
health effects, especially in young children. A spokesperson
for the FSA stated that “it was the agency’s duty to put con-
sumers first,” and that the “colours were not necessary and it
was therefore ‘sensible’ to remove them from food.” Several
of the major food manufacturers in the UK have listened to
the concerns of consumers and committed to replacing arti-
ficial colours with safer alternatives.

In Australia and New Zealand, foods and beverages contain-

ing these and other potentially harmful additives continue to
be freely marketed at children. Many of the artificial colours
legally allowed in our foods and beverages have been shown
over the last 40 or so years to cause or exacerbate symptoms
and conditions like asthma, headache and migraine, hyper-
activity, learning difficulties, behavioural problems, sleep dis-
orders and organ damage. Some of these colours have been
banned in one or more other countries, either because they
have not been conclusively proven safe, or what is more dis-
turbing, they have been proven unsafe for human consump-
tion.

Scientific studies are bearing witness to what parents have

known for many years – that certain food additives can ad-
3
versely affect children’s behaviour and learning ability. Given
the fact that links between certain food additives, especially
colours, and adverse effects in young children including hyper-
activity, behavioural problems and learning deficits have been
clearly demonstrated, the continued addition of these harm-
ful chemicals to foods marketed at children is tantamount to
criminal negligence. Why? Because the first seven or so years
of a child’s life are critical to establishing the foundation on
which they build their future relationship, career and health
paths. If these precious moments are distorted and ultimately
lost by the unnecessary addition to their diets of synthetic
chemical additives, they can never be regained.

Today’s informed consumers are no longer content to accept

that all the additives and ingredients in foods and personal
care and cosmetic products are benign and therefore can
do us no harm. This increased awareness is a result of both
personal experience and the proliferation of information via
various media exposing the potential adverse effects of many
synthetic chemicals, including those in our foods and cos-
metics.

This book has been produced to make it simpler and easier

for you to recognise safe foods, cosmetics and personal care
products so you can help protect your health, the health of
your family, and the health of the environment.

4
 Food Additives with INS Numbers
Acacia or gum Arabic 414
Acesulphame potassium 950
Acetic acid, glacial 260
Acetic and fatty acid esters of glycerol 472a
Acetylated distarch adipate 1422
Acetylated distarch phosphate 1414
Acid treated starch 1401
Adipic acid 355
Agar 406
Alginic acid 400
Alitame 956
Alkaline treated starch 1402
Alkanet or alkannin 103
Allura red AC 129
Alpha-amylase 1100
Aluminium 173
Aluminium, calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium and
ammonium salts of fatty acids 470
Aluminium silicate 559
Amaranth 123
Ammonium acetate 264
Ammonium adipates 359
Ammonium alginate 403
Ammonium bicarbonate 503
Ammonium chloride 510
Ammonium citrate 380
Ammonium fumarate 368
Ammonium hydrogen carbonate 503
Ammonium lactate 328
Ammonium malate 349
Ammonium phosphate 342
Ammonium salts of phosphatidic acid 442
α-Amylase 1100
Annatto extracts 160b
Anthocyanins or grape skin extract or blackcurrant extract 163
Arabinogalactan or larch gum 409
Ascorbic acid 300
Ascorbyl palmitate 304
5
Aspartame 951
Azorubine or carmoisine 122
ß-apo-8’ Carotenoic acid or methyl ethyl ester 160f
ß-apo-8’ Carotenal 160e
Beeswax, white and yellow 901
Beet red 162
Bentonite 558
Benzoic acid 210
Bleached starch 1403
Bone phosphate 542
Brilliant black BN or brilliant black PN 151
Brilliant blue FCF 133
Brown HT 155
Butane 943a
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) 320
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) 321
Calcium acetate 263
Calcium alginate 404
Calcium aluminium silicate 556
Calcium ascorbate 302
Calcium benzoate 213
Calcium carbonate 170
Calcium chloride 509
Calcium citrate 333
Calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate or
calcium disodium EDTA 385
Calcium fumarate 367
Calcium gluconate 578
Calcium glutamate 623
Calcium hydroxide 526
Calcium lactate 327
Calcium lactylate 482
Calcium malate 352
Calcium oleyl lactylate 482
Calcium oxide 529
Calcium phosphate 341
Calcium propionate 282
Calcium silicate 552
Calcium sorbate 203
Calcium stearoyl lactylate 482
6
Calcium sulphate 516
Calcium tartrate 354
Caramel I 150a
Caramel II 150b
Caramel III 150c
Caramel IV 150d
Carbon blacks or vegetable carbon 153
Carbon dioxide 290
Carnauba wax 903
Carotene 160a
Carrageenan 407
Cellulose microcrystalline; cellulose, powdered 460
Chlorophyll 140
Chlorophyll-copper complex; chlorophyllin copper complex 141
Choline salts 1001
Citric acid 330
Citric and fatty acid esters of glycerol 472c
Cochineal or carmines or carminic acid 120
Cupric sulphate 519
Curcumin or turmeric 100
Cyclamate or calcium cyclamate or sodium cyclamate 952
Dextrin roasted starch 1400
Diacetyltartaric and fatty acid esters of glycerol 472e
Dimethyl dicarbonate 242
Dimethylpolysiloxane 900
Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate 480
Disodium 5’- ribonucleotides 635
Disodium 5’- guanylate 627
Disodium 5’- inosinate 631
Distarch phosphate 1412
Dodecyl gallate 312
Enzyme treated starches 1405
Erythorbic acid 315
Erythritol 968
Erythrosine 127
Ethyl maltol 637
Fast green FCF 143
Ferrous gluconate 579
Flavoxanthin 161a
Fumaric acid 297
7
Gellan gum 418
Glucono-d-lactone or glucono-delta-lactone 575
Glucose oxidase 1102
L-Glutamic acid 620
Glycerin, glycerol 422
Glycerol esters of wood rosins 445
Glycine 640
Gold 175
Green S 142
Guar gum 412
4-Hexylresorcinol 586
Hydrochloric acid 507
Hydroxypropyl cellulose 463
Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate 1442
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 464
Hydroxypropyl starch 1440
Indigotine 132
Iron oxide 172
Isobutane 943b
Isomalt 953
Karaya gum 416
Kryptoxanthin 161c
L-Cysteine monohydrochloride 920
L-Glutamic acid 620
L-Leucine 641
Lactic acid 270
Lactic and fatty acid esters of glycerol 472b
Lactitol 966
Lecithin 322
Lipases 1104
Locust bean gum or carob bean gum 410
Lutein 161b
Lycopene 160d
Lysozyme 1105
Magnesium carbonate 504
Magnesium chloride 511
Magnesium gluconate 580
Magnesium glutamate 625
Magnesium lactate 329
Magnesium oxide 530
8
Magnesium phosphate 343
Magnesium silicate or talc 553
Magnesium sulphate 518
Malic acid 296
Maltitol and maltitol syrup or hydrogenated glucose syrup 965
Maltol 636
Mannitol 421
Metatartaric acid 353
Methyl ethyl cellulose 465
Methylcellulose 461
Methylparaben or methyl-p-hydroxybenzoate 218
Mixed tartaric, acetic and fatty acid esters of glycerol 472f
Mono- and di-glycerides of fatty acids 471
Monoammonium L-glutamate 624
Monopotassium L-glutamate 622
Monosodium L-glutamate or MSG 621
Mono starch phosphate 1410
Natamycin or pimaricin 235
Neotame 961
Nisin 234
Nitrogen 941
Nitrous oxide 942
Octafluorocyclobutane 946
Octyl gallate 311
Oxidised polyethylene 914
Oxidised starch 1404
Paprika oleoresins 160c
Pectin 440
Petrolatum or petroleum jelly 905b
Phosphated distarch phosphate 1413
Phosphoric acid 338
Polydextrose 1200
Polydimethylsiloxane or dimethylpolysiloxane 900a
Polyethylene glycol 8000 1521
Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids 475
Polyglycerol esters of interesterified ricinoleic acid 476
Polyoxyethylene (40) stearate 431
Polysorbate 60 or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate 435
Polysorbate 65 or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate 436
Polysorbate 80 or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate 433
9
Polyvinylpyrrolidone 1201
Ponceau 4R 124
Potassium acetate or potassium diacetate 261
Potassium adipate 357
Potassium alginate 402
Potassium aluminium silicate 555
Potassium ascorbate 303
Potassium benzoate 212
Potassium bicarbonate 501
Potassium bisulphite 228
Potassium chloride 508
Potassium citrate; potassium dihydrogen citrate 332
Potassium ferrocyanide 536
Potassium fumarate 366
Potassium gluconate 577
Potassium lactate 326
Potassium malate 351
Potassium metabisulphite 224
Potassium nitrate 252
Potassium nitrite 249
Potassium phosphate 340
Potassium polymetaphosphate 452
Potassium propionate 283
Potassium pyrophosphate 450
Potassium silicate 560
Potassium sodium tartrate 337
Potassium sorbate 202
Potassium sulphate 515
Potassium sulphite 225
Potassium tartrate or potassium acid tartrate 336
Potassium tripolyphosphate 451
Processed eucheuma seaweed 407a
Propane 944
Propionic acid 280
Propyl gallate 310
Propylene glycol 1520
Propylene glycol alginate 405
Propylene glycol mono- and di-esters or
propylene glycol esters of fatty acids 477
Propylparaben or propyl-p-hydroxybenzoate 216
10
Proteases (papain, bromelain, ficin) 1101
Quinoline yellow 104
Rhodoxanthin 161f
Riboflavin; riboflavin 5’-phosphate sodium 101
Rubixanthin 161d
Saccharin or calcium saccharin or sodium saccharin or
potassium saccharin 954
Saffron or crocetin or crocin 164
Shellac 904
Silicon dioxide, amorphous 551
Silver 174
Sodium acetate 262
Sodium acid pyrophosphate 450
Sodium alginate 401
Sodium aluminium phosphate 541
Sodium aluminosilicate 554
Sodium ascorbate 301
Sodium benzoate 211
Sodium bicarbonate 500
Sodium bisulphite 222
Sodium carbonate 500
Sodium carboxymethylcellulose 466
Sodium citrate 331
Sodium diacetate 262
Sodium dihydrogen citrate 331
Sodium erythorbate 316
Sodium ferrocyanide 535
Sodium fumarate 365
Sodium hydrogen malate 350
Sodium lactate 325
Sodium lactylate 481
Sodium malate 350
Sodium metabisulphite 223
Sodium metaphosphate, insoluble 452
Sodium nitrate 251
Sodium nitrite 250
Sodium oleyl lactylate 481
Sodium phosphate 339
Sodium polyphosphates, glassy 452
Sodium propionate 281
11
Sodium pyrophosphate 450
Sodium sorbate 201
Sodium stearoyl lactylate 481
Sodium sulphate 514
Sodium sulphite 221
Sodium tartrate 335
Sodium tripolyphosphate 451
Sorbic acid 200
Sorbitan monostearate 491
Sorbitan tristearate 492
Sorbitol or sorbitol syrup 420
Stannous chloride 512
Starch acetate 1420
Starch sodium octenylsuccinate 1450
Stearic acid or fatty acid 570
Succinic acid 363
Sucralose 955
Sucrose acetate isobutyrate 444
Sucrose esters of fatty acids 473
Sulphur dioxide 220
Sunset yellow FCF 110
Talc or magnesium silicate 553
Tannic acid or tannins 181
Tartaric acid 334
Tartrazine 102
tert-Butylhydroquinone 319
Thaumatin 957
Titanium dioxide 171
α-Tocopherol 307
δ-Tocopherol 309
γ-Tocopherol 308
Tocopherols concentrate, mixed 306
Tragacanth gum 413
Triacetin 1518
Triammonium citrate 380
Triethyl citrate 1505
Violoxanthin 161e
Xanthan gum 415
Xylitol 967

12
 Part 1

Your Guide
to
Food Additives
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Curcumin or People with gall- Food: ice-
turmeric Colour stones or liver dis- cream, baked
100 (orange/ ? orders should limit goods, sauces
E100 yellow)
Antioxidant
K intake; prohibited in Other: dietary
foods for infants supplements
Riboflavin Regarded as safe in Food: baby
or riboflavin food use; recognised food, sauces,
Colour
101 5’-phosphate (orange/ J to have beneficial cheese, cereals
E101 sodium yellow) J effects on health Other: dietary
(vitamin B2; supplements
probably GM)
Tartrazine Asthma; headache; Food: jam,
learning difficulties; ice-cream,
skin rash; difficult jelly, beverages,
Colour
102 (lemon to L concentration; be- sweets, yoghurt
E102 yellow /orange) L havioural problems;
avoid if aspirin
Other: soap,
cosmetics,
sensitive; suspected medicines,
neuro toxicity crayons
Alkanet or Although little data Food: process-
alkannin exists on adverse ed foods, port
103
Colour
(red to copper ? reactions, its safe wine
to blue) K use as a food colour Other: hair oil,
is questioned cosmetics, ink
Quinoline yellow Asthma; dermatitis; Food: process-
(banned in the Colour rash; tantrums; avoid ed foods,
104 USA) (dull yellow if aspirin sensitive; beverages
E104 to greenish L anaphylaxis; hyper- Other:
yellow) activity; suspected cosmetics,
carcinogen toothpaste
Sunset yellow Asthma; nettle rash; Food: prooess-
FCF hay fever; vomiting; ed foods,
Colour
110 (yellow) L nausea; diarrhoea; beverages
Other: cosmet-
E110 L avoid if aspirin
sensitive; suspected ics, medicines,
carcinogen Ventolin syrup

14
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Cochineal or Asthma; hay fever; Food: bakery
carmines or anaphylaxis; itching; goods, biscuits,
carminic acid nausea; nettle rash; beverages
120 Colour
E120 (animal derived) (red) L allergic reactions; Other: lipstick,
avoid if aspirin cosmetics, mas-
sensitive cara, tablets
Azorubine or Asthma; nettle Foods: jam,
carmoisine rash; hyperactivity; jelly, processed
122 (banned in the Colour L tantrums; avoid if foods
E122 USA) (red) L aspirin sensitive Other:
mouthwash
Amaranth Asthma; eczema; Food: jam,
(the synthetic hyperactivity; skin ice-cream,
chemical, not rash; birth defects confectionery,
the grain) fruit juice,
123 Colour L in animals; GIT
E123 (banned in the beverages
USA)
(bluish red)
L symptoms; avoid if
aspirin sensitive; Other: lipstick,
suspected animal cosmetics
carcinogen
Ponceau 4R Asthma; tantrums; Food: process-
(banned in the hyperactivity; avoid ed foods,
124 USA) Colour beverages
E124 (red) L if aspirin sensitive;
suspected animal Other:
carcinogen toothpaste
Erythrosine Asthma; learning Food: cocktail,
difficulties; hives; maraschino and
Colour
127
(cherry pink L photosensitivity; glace´ cherries
Other:
E127
to red) L hyperactivity; xeno-
estrogen; suspected cosmetics,
animal carcinogen toothpaste
Allura red AC Nettle rash; nausea; Food: process-
hay fever; hypersen- ed foods,
129 Colour L sitivity reactions; beverages
Other: lipstick,
E129 (dark red)
L hyperactivity; NRC;
tantrums; avoid if cosmetics,
aspirin sensitive medicines

15
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Indigotine Asthma; allergic Food: process-
(petroleum reactions; NRC; ed foods,
132 derived) Colour hyperactivity; beverages
E132
(moderate
bright green)
L hypertension Other: denim,
hair rinse,
medicines
Brilliant blue Asthma; nettle rash; Food: process-
FCF hay fever; allergic ed foods,
(petroleum reactions; NRC; beverages
133 derived) Colour L avoid if aspirin sen- Other: soap,
E133 (bright blue)
L sitive; neuro toxicity; toothpaste,
shampoo
suspected mutagen
and carcinogen
Chlorophyll Regarded as safe Food: process-
Colour in food use; has ed foods
140 beneficial health Other:
E140
(olive to dark
green)
J effects; may cause mouthwash,
photosensitivity medicines
Chlorophyll Regarded as safe in Food: process-
copper complex; food use ed foods
141 chlorophyllin Colour J Other:
E141 copper complex (bright green)
J mouthwash,
medicines
Green S Asthma; hyperactiv- Food: process-
142 (may be petroleum Colour ity; rash; insomnia; ed foods,
E142 derived; banned in (green) L allergic reactions; beverages
organic foods) harmful if swallowed Other: textiles
Fast green FCF Irritating to eyes, Food: process-
(banned in the EU skin and respiratory ed foods,
and some other system; sensitisa- beverages
countries; banned Colour tion in allergenic Other:
143 in organic foods)
(sea green) L people; bladder cosmetics,
tumours; possible except those
carcinogen used near the
eyes

16
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Caramel I May cause gastro- Food: alcoholic

150a
(may be GM)
Colour ? intestinal problems;
HACSG recom-
beverages,
sauces
E150a
(dark brown)
K mends to avoid Other: skin
lotion, cosmetics

Caramel II May cause gastro- Food: alcoholic

(may be GM) intestinal problems; beverages,
Colour may affect the liver; vegetable
150b
E150b
(dark brown to
black)
L asthma; HACSG extract
recommends to Other:
avoid unknown

Caramel III May cause gastro- Food: beer,

(may be GM) Colour intestinal problems; bakery goods,
150c
E150c
(dark brown to
black)
L may affect the liver; sauce, gravy
Other:
HACSG recom-
mends to avoid unknown

Caramel IV May cause gastro- Food: soft

(may be GM) intestinal problems; drinks, whisky,
150d
E150d
Colour L asthma; HACSG stout
Other: skin
recommends to
avoid lotion, cosmetics

Brilliant black Hyperactivity; Food: sweets,

BN or brilliant asthma; may effect beverages,
black PN Colour kidneys, stomach; desserts
151 (banned in some
E151 countries)
(black) L possible carcinogen; Other:
HACSG recom- cosmetics
mends to avoid

Carbon black Mildly toxic by skin Food: process-

or vegetable
153 carbon
Colour ? contact, ingestion,
and inhalation; may
ed foods
Other:
E153 (banned in some
(black)
K be carcinogenic cosmetics
countries)

17
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Brown HT Asthma; allergic re- Food: process-
actions; nettle rash; ed foods,
155 Colour may affect kidneys; chocolate milk
E155 (brown) L NRC; avoid if aspirin Other:
sensitive medicine

Carotene Regarded as safe in Food: butter

160a Colour J food use; believed to Other:
E160a (orange to red)
J have health benefits supplements
Annatto extracts May cause irritability; Food: cereals,
head banging; hives; dairy products,
160b Colour headache; sleep ice-cream
E160b (yellow to pink) L disturbance; rest- Other: soap,
lessness cosmetics

Paprika Regarded as safe in Food: process-

oleoresins food use; repeated ed foods
160c Colour
E160c (yellow to pink) J skin contact may Other: poultry
cause hives feed

Lycopene Regarded as safe in Food: process-

160d (may be GM) Colour food use; those aller- ed foods
E160d (red) J gic to tomato may Other:
react to lycopene supplements

Beta-apo-8’ Regarded as safe in Food: process-

160e Carotenal Colour
(orange to
J food use ed foods
Other: cosmet-
E160e
orange/red) J ics, medicines
Beta-apo-8’ Regarded as safe in Food: process-
Colour
160f carotenoic acid J food use ed foods
or methyl ethyl (yellow to Other:
E160f
ester orange) J unknown
Flavoxanthin Xanthophylls com- Food: process-
Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161a (yellow to
orange)
J for absorption into Other:
the body unknown

18
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Lutein Xanthophylls com- Food: process-
Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161b
E161b
(yellow to
orange/red)
J for absorption into Other: poultry
the body feed, cosmetics

Kryptoxanthin Xanthophylls com- Food: process-

Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161c (yellow) J for absorption into Other:
the body unknown

Rubixanthin Xanthophylls com- Food: process-

Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161d (yellow) J for absorption into Other:
the body unknown

Violoxanthin Xanthophylls com- Food: process-

Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161e (yellow) J for absorption into Other:
the body unknown

Rhodoxanthin Xanthophylls com- Food: process-

Colour pete with carotenes ed foods
161f (yellow) J for absorption into Other:
the body unknown

Beet red Regarded as safe in Food: process-

162 Colour food use; contains ed foods
E162
J nitrate so may be Other:
NRC unknown

Anthocyanins Regarded as safe in Food: wine

or grape skin
163 extract or Colour J food use; believed
to have health
Other:
supplements,
E163 blackcurrant (red/violet)
J benefits cosmetics
extract
Saffron or Regarded as safe in Food: jam, jelly,
crocetin or Colour food use; may cause tomato sauce
164 crocin (orange to
brown)
J allergic reactions in Other:
some people cosmetics

19
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Calcium Regarded as safe Food: wine,
carbonate in food use at low infant foods
Colour
170 (may be animal Other: vitamins,
E170 derived) Anticaking
agent
J levels; may cause
nausea, abdominal cosmetics
pain and constipation
Titanium dioxide Regarded as safe in Food: sweets,
171 Colour ? food use; suspected jam, jelly
reproductive toxicity Other: cosmet-
E171 (white)
K ics, sunscreen
Iron oxide Colour Iron oxide is poten- Food: process-
172 (banned in some (red/brown/ ? tially toxic to human ed foods
Other: pet food,
E172 countries) cells, especially in
black/orange/
yellow)
K nanoparticle form cosmetics
Aluminium Can aggravate lung Food: external
(banned in some and kidney disorders; decoration
173 countries) Colour Other:
E173 (metallic) L impairs calcium and
phosphorous uptake cosmetics,
by the body antiperspirant
Silver Toxic in large doses; Food: external
174 Colour ? accumulates in tis-
sues; argyria (rare);
decoration
Other: nail pol-
E174 (metallic)
K kidney damage ish, cosmetics
Gold Regarded as safe Food: external
175 Colour in food use; neuro decoration
E175 (metallic) J toxicity; allergic Other:
reactions are rare cosmetics
Tannic acid or Regarded as safe in Food: wine
tannins Colour food use; repeated Other: anti-
181 (brown)
Emulsifier
J use on the skin may aging cream,
lead to irritation sunscreen
Sorbic acid Allergic reactions; Food: bread,
200 (mainly petroleum
Preservative ? asthma; behavioural jam, icing
E200 derived) problems; skin Other: cosmet-
K irritation ics, toothpaste

20
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Sodium sorbate Asthma; hay fever; Food: icing,
(mainly petroleum
201 derived) Preservative ? headache; skin jam, noodles
irritation; stomach Other: cosmet-
K upset; hyperactivity ics, toothpaste
Potassium Asthma; hay fever; Food: icing,
202 sorbate
Preservative ? headache; skin jam, confections
E202 (mainly petroleum irritation; stomach Other: cosmet-
derived) K upset; hyperactivity ics, sunscreen
Calcium sorbate Asthma; hay fever; Food: cheese,
203 (mainly petroleum
Preservative ? headache; skin ice confections
E203 derived) irritation; stomach Other: cosmet-
K upset; hyperactivity ics, toothpaste
Benzoic acid Skin irritation; head- Food: pickles,
(petroleum ache; stomach upset; soft drink, jam
210 derived)
E210
Preservative L asthma; hyperactiv-
ity; avoid if aspirin
Other: cosmet-
ics, medicines
sensitive
Sodium Skin irritation; head- Food: pickles,
benzoate ache; stomach upset; soft drink, jam
211 (petroleum
E211 derived)
Preservative L asthma; hyperactiv-
ity; avoid if aspirin
Other: cosmet-
ics, medicines
sensitive
Potassium Skin irritation; head- Food: pickles,
benzoate ache; stomach upset; soft drink, jam
212 (petroleum
E212 derived)
Preservative L asthma; hyperactiv-
ity; avoid if aspirin
Other: cosmet-
ics, medicines
sensitive
Calcium Skin irritation; head- Food: pickles,
benzoate ache; stomach upset; soft drink, jam
213 (petroleum
E213 derived)
Preservative L asthma; hyperactiv-
ity; avoid if aspirin
Other: cosmet-
ics, medicines
sensitive
Propylparaben Skin redness; hives; Food: process-
or propyl-p- contact dermatitis; ed foods
hydroxy- skin swelling and Other: baby
216 benzoate Preservative L itching; asthma; see lotion, pet food,
(petroleum cosmetics,
parabens in part 2
derived)
vaccines
21
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Methylparaben Asthma; hives; skin Food: process-
or methyl-p- redness; contact ed foods
hydroxy- dermatitis; skin Other: baby
218 benzoate
E218 (petroleum
Preservative L
swelling and itching;
see parabens in
lotion, pet food,
cosmetics,
derived)
part 2 medicines,
vaccines
Sulphur dioxide Asthma; bronchitis; Food: wine,
anaphylaxis; hives; dried fruit
220 nausea; destroys Other: fungi-
E220
Preservative L vitamin B1; stomach cide, bleaching
upset; diarrhoea; agent for paper
swelling and textiles
Sodium sulphite Asthma; destroys Food: jelly, jam,
221 vitamin B1; HACSG dried fruit
E221
Preservative L recommends to Other: pulp and
avoid paper industry
Sodium Bronchial asthma; Food: jam,
222 bisulphite chronic hives; skin dried fruit, wine
E222
Preservative L irritation; mutagen Other: cosmet-
ics, sunscreen
Sodium Hay fever; HACSG Food: bread,
metabisulphite recommends to cheese
223 Other: cosmet-
E223
Preservative L avoid; asthma;
harmful to aquatic ics, sunscreen,
organisms hairspray
Potassium Asthma; stomach Food: bread,
224 metabisulphite upset; behavioural cheese
E224
Preservative L problems; hives; Other:
anaphylaxis cosmetics
Potassium See sodium sulphite Food: cheese
225 sulphite Preservative L (221) Other: hair
care products
Potassium See sodium Food: jam
228 bisulphite
E228
Preservative L bisulphite (222) Other:
cosmetics

22
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Nisin Re-evaluated in Food: cheese
2006 and antibiotic products, dips,
resistance unlikely snacks, sauces
234
Preservative ? to be an issue in Other:
unknown
relation to its use
E234
K in food; may cause
nausea, vomiting
and diarrhoea
Natamycin or EFSA yet to issue Food: shredded
pimaricin an opinion on the cheese and
235
Preservative ? safety of this anti- cheese prod-
ucts, meats
E235
K biotic when used as
a food additive Other: treating
fungal infections
Dimethyl Regarded as safe in Food: wine,
242 dicarbonate
Preservative J food use beverages
E242
J Other: unknown
Potassium nitrite Asthma; headache; Food: process-
(restricted in some Preservative stomach upset; can ed meats
249 countries) Other: manu-
E249 Colour
fixative
L react with amines to
form nitrosamines; facture of heat
environmental toxin transfer salts
Sodium nitrite Asthma; headache; Food: process-
(restricted in some Preservative stomach upset; can ed meats
250 countries) Other: anticor-
E250 Colour
fixative
L react with amines to
form nitrosamines; rosive in some
environmental toxin cosmetics
Sodium nitrate Asthma; headache; Food: process-
Preservative stomach upset; can ed meats
251 Other: fertiliser,
E251 Colour
fixative
L react with amines to
form nitrosamines; tobacco
environmental toxin
Potassium Asthma; headache; Food: process-
nitrate Preservative stomach upset; can ed meats
252 Other: fertiliser,
E252 Colour
fixative
L react with amines to
form nitrosamines; tobacco
environmental toxin
23
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Acetic acid, Regarded as safe in Food: vinegar,
260 glacial Acidity food use; respiratory fruit wine
E260 regulator J and immunotoxicity Other: hair
colour, shampoo
Potassium Caution advised in Food: infant
acetate or people with impaired foods
261 potassium Acidity ? kidney function or Other: diuretic
E261 diacetate regulator
K cardiac disease and heart
medications
Sodium Regarded as safe Food: infant
acetates in food use; foods
262 Acidity
E262 regulator J moderately toxic by Other: heating
ingestion pads
Calcium acetate Regarded as safe in Food: infant
263 Acidity J food use foods
Other: treating
regulator
E263
J kidney disease
Ammonium Caution advised Food: infant

264
acetate
Acidity ? in people with liver
damage; nausea;
foods
Other: hair
regulator
K vomiting colouring
Lactic acid Regarded as safe Food: infant
270 (may be animal Acidity in food use; may foods, wine
E270 derived; may be
GM)
regulator J not be suitable for Other:
infants cosmetics
Propionic acid Migraines; develop- Food: bakery
(may be GM) mental delay; neu- products, pasta,
280 cheese
E280
Preservative L rological problems;
learning difficulties Other:
pharmaceutical
Sodium Migraines; develop- Food: bakery
propionate mental delay; neu- products, pasta
281
E281 (may be GM)
Preservative L rological problems; Other:
learning difficulties pharmaceutical

24
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Calcium Migraines; develop- Food: bakery
282 propionate mental delay; neu- products, pasta
E282
Preservative L rological problems; Other:
learning difficultiespharmaceutical
Potassium Migraines; develop- Food: bakery
283 propionate mental delay; neu- products, pasta
E283
Preservative L rological problems; Other:
learning difficultiescosmetics
Carbon dioxide Regarded as safe Food: mineral
290 in food use; high water, wine
E290
Propellant J concentrations can Other: dry ice,
be dangerous gassed creams
Malic acid Regarded as safe in Food: fruit
food use; synthetic juice, wine,
296 Acidity
E296 regulator J forms (D & DL) not yoghurt
Other: cosmet-
suitable for infants
ics, baby wipes
Fumaric acid Regarded as safe in Food: wine
297 (may be GM) Acidity J food use Other: mordant
regulator
E297
J for dyes
Ascorbic acid Regarded as safe Food: wine,
300 (may be GM) in food use; if GM, infant foods
E300
Antioxidant J it may not be well Other: cosmet-
utilised by the body ics, sunscreen
Sodium Regarded as safe Food: wine,
301 ascorbate in food use; if GM, infant foods
E301 (may be GM)
Antioxidant J it may not be well Other: cosmet-
utilised by the body ics, toothpaste
Calcium Regarded as safe Food: wine,
302 ascorbate in food use; if GM, infant foods
E302 (may be GM)
Antioxidant J it may not be well Other: cosmet-
utilised by the body ics, toothpaste
Potassium Regarded as safe Food: beer,
303 ascorbate in food use; if GM, infant foods
E303 (may be GM)
Antioxidant J it may not be well Other: film
utilised by the body developing

25
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Ascorbyl Regarded as safe in Food: powder-
304 palmitate
Antioxidant J food use ed milk
Other: cosmet-
E304
J ics, sunscreen
Tocopherols Regarded as safe in Food: infant
306 concentrate,
Antioxidant J food use; destroyed foods
E306 mixed by processing, heat, Other: cosmet-
(may be GM) J light and freezing ics, sunscreen
α-Tocopherol Regarded as safe in Food: infant
307 (alpha tocopherol;
Antioxidant J food use; destroyed foods
Other: cosmet-
E307 may be GM) by processing, heat,
J light and freezing ics, sunscreen
γ-Tocopherol Regarded as safe in Food: edible
308 (gamma tocoph-
Antioxidant J food use; destroyed oils
Other: cosmet-
E308 erol; may be GM) by processing, heat,
J light and freezing ics, sunscreen
δ-Tocopherol Regarded as safe in Food: edible
309 (delta tocopherol;
Antioxidant J food use; destroyed oils
Other: cosmet-
E309 may be GM) by processing, heat,
J light and freezing ics, sunscreen
Propyl gallate Asthma; contact Food: chewing
310 (petroleum dermatitis; cheilitis; gum, edible oils
E310 derived)
Antioxidant L hyperactivity; avoid Other: cosmet-
if aspirin sensitive ics, lubricants
Octyl gallate Asthma; contact Food: chewing
311 dermatitis; cheilitis; gum, edible oils
E311
Antioxidant L hyperactivity; avoid Other: medical
if aspirin sensitive preparations
Dodecyl gallate Asthma; contact Food: chewing
312 dermatitis; cheilitis; gum, edible oils
E312
Antioxidant L hyperactivity; avoid Other: lipstick,
if aspirin sensitive ink
Erythorbic acid Regarded as safe in Food: chewing
315 food use; may cause gum, edible oils
E315
Antioxidant J allergic reactions in Other: hair
some people colouring
26
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Sodium Regarded as safe in Food: wine,
316 erythorbate food use; gives only beer
E316
Antioxidant J 5% of the vitamin Other: film
capacity of vitamin C developing
tert-Butylhydro- Toxic by ingestion; Food: edible
quinone birth defects; allergicoils (may not
319
Antioxidant L contact dermatitis; be listed)
Other: varnish,
E319
L suspected carcino-
gen and mutagen perfumery,
lacquer
Butylated Headache; asthma; Food: edible
hydroxyanisole insomnia; wheezing; oils (may not
320 (BHA; banned in
Antioxidant L fatigue; depression; be listed)
E320 some countries)
L DNA damage; Other: perfum-
animal carcinogen ery, cosmetics
Butylated Asthma; migraine; Food: edible
hydroxytoluene liver damage; ag- oils (may not
321 (BHT; banned in
some countries; Antioxidant L gressive behaviour; be listed)
learning difficulties; Other:
E321
petroleum L suspected mutagen perfumery,
derived)
and carcinogen cosmetics
Lecithin Regarded as safe in Food: infant
(may be GM; may food use; people al- foods,
322 be animal derived) Antioxidant
E322 Emulsifier J lergic to soy protein chocolate
Other: cosmet-
may wish to avoid
ics, sunscreen
Sodium lactate Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: infant
(may be GM) regulator food use; should be foods, cheese
325 safe for those with Other:
E325
Humectant J lactose intolerance cosmetics,
Bulking
agent or milk allergy; NRC sunscreen
Potassium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: infant
lactate regulator food use; should be foods, cheese
326 (may be GM) safe for those with Other:
E326
Humectant J lactose intolerance cosmetics,
Bulking
agent or milk allergy; NRC sunscreen
27
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Calcium lactate Regarded as safe in Food: infant
(may be GM) food use; should be foods, cheese
327 Acidity Other:
E327 regulator J safe for those with
lactose intolerance cosmetics,
or milk allergy; NRC sunscreen
Ammonium Regarded as safe in Food: infant
lactate food use; should be foods, cheese
Acidity Other: creams,
328 (may be GM) regulator J safe for those with
lactose intolerance lotions
or milk allergy; NRC
Magnesium Regarded as safe in Food: infant
lactate food use; should be foods, cheese
Acidity
329 (may be GM) Other: laxative
regulator J safe for those with
lactose intolerance
or milk allergy; NRC
Citric acid Regarded as safe in Food: infant
(may be GM) Acidity food use; stomach foods, wine
330 Other: anti-
E330
regulator
Antioxidant
J cramp, diarrhoea,
skin rash and bloat- aging creams,
ing occur rarely shampoo
Sodium citrates Regarded as safe Food: infant
(may be GM) Acidity in food use; can foods
331 regulator Other: anti-
E331 Emulsifier J provoke symptoms
in those who react aging creams,
Stabiliser sunscreen
to MSG
Potassium Regarded as safe Food: infant
citrates Acidity in food use; can foods
332 (may be GM) Other: anti-
E332
regulator
Stabiliser
J provoke symptoms
in those who react aging creams,
to MSG sunscreen
Calcium citrates Regarded as safe Food: infant
(may be GM) Acidity in food use; can foods
333 Other: anti-
E333
regulator
Stabiliser
J provoke symptoms
in those who react aging creams,
to MSG sunscreen

28
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Tartaric acid Regarded as safe Food: wine,
Acidity
334 regulator J in food use; not soft drinks
Other: anti-
metabolised in the
E334
Antioxidant J body aging cream
Sodium tartrates Regarded as safe Food: marmal-
Acidity
335
regulator J in food use; not ade, fruit juice
Other:
metabolised in the
E335
J body unknown
Potassium Regarded as safe Food: bakery
tartrate or Acidity in food use; people products, fruit
336 potassium acid juice, wine
E336 tartrate
regulator
Stabiliser
J with impaired kidney
or liver function Other: medical
should avoid diuretic
Potassium Regarded as safe Food: cheese
sodium tartrate in food use; people products, fruit
Acidity with oedema, high juice, wine
337 Other:
E337
regulator
Stabiliser
J blood pressure,
cardiac failure, kid- effervescent
ney or liver damage powders
advised to avoid
Phosphoric acid Regarded as safe Food: cola
in food use at low drinks, cheese
338 Acidity
regulator ? levels; excess may products, fruit
juice
lead to tooth erosion
E338
K and calcium loss in Other: cosmet-
bones ics, toothpaste
Sodium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: frozen
339 phosphates regulator food use at low lev- fish products
E339 Emulsifier J els; phosphates bind Other: cosmet-
Stabiliser up calcium readily ics, detergents
Potassium Regarded as safe in Food: frozen
phosphates Acidity food use at low lev- fish products
340 regulator
J els; phosphates bind Other:
E340 Emulsifier sunscreen,
up calcium readily
Stabiliser cigarettes

29
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Calcium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: frozen
phosphates regulator food use at low fish products,
341 Emulsifier levels; phosphates cheese
E341 Stabiliser J bind up calcium Other:
Anticaking readily cosmetics,
agent toothpaste
Ammonium Regarded as safe in Food: canned
phosphates food use at low fish, flour
Acidity
342 regulator J levels; phosphates products
Other: fire
bind up calcium
readily retardant
Magnesium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: dried
343 phosphates regulator food use at low levels; milk, milk powder
E343 Anticaking J phosphates bind up Other:
agent calcium readily supplements
Ammonium Regarded as safe in Food: unknown
349
malate Acidity J food use; D,L- and Other:
regulator unknown
J D-isomers not al-
lowed in infant food
Sodium malates Regarded as safe in Food: soft
Acidity
350 regulator J food use; D,L- and drinks
Other: topical
E350
Humectant J D-isomers not al-
lowed in infant food cosmetics
Potassium Regarded as safe in Food: fried
351 malates Acidity J food use; D,L- and products, ice
regulator cream
E351
J D-isomers not al-
lowed in infant food Other: tobacco
Calcium malates Regarded as safe in Food: marma-
352 Acidity J food use; D,L- and lade, ice cream
regulator Other:
E352
J D-isomers not al-
lowed in infant food supplements
Metatartaric acid Regarded as safe Food: wine,
in food use at low fruit juice
353 Acidity
E353 regulator J levels; metabolised
in the body to
Other:
unknown
tartaric acid
30
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Calcium tartrate Regarded as safe Food: fruit and
Acidity
354 regulator J in food use; metabo- vegetable juice
Other:
E354 J lised to tartaric acid
in the body pharmaceutical
Adipic acid Regarded as safe in Food: baked
Acidity food use; repeated goods, oils
355
E355
regulator J or prolonged skin Other:
production of
contact may cause
allergic reaction nylon

Potassium Regarded as safe in Food: low-

Acidity
357 adipate regulator J food use sodium salt
substitutes
E357 J Other: unknown
Ammonium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: salt
359 adipates regulator J food use substitute
J Other: unknown
Succinic acid Regarded as safe Food: bakery
Acidity in food use at low products
363
E363
regulator J levels; excess may Other: dyes,
pharmaceutical,
cause vomiting and
diarrhoea perfumes

Sodium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: bakery

365 fumarate regulator J food use wares, cheese
J Other: unknown
Potassium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: bakery
366 fumarate regulator J food use wares, cheese
J Other: unknown
Calcium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: cottage
367 fumarate regulator J food use cheese
J Other: unknown
Ammonium Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: bakery
368 fumarate regulator J food use wares, cheese
J Other: unknown

31
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Ammonium Regarded as safe Food: infant
citrate or in food use; can foods
380 triammonium Acidity
E380 citrate
regulator J provoke symptoms Other:
unknown
in those who react
(may be GM)
to MSG
Ferric Acidity Regarded as safe in Food: salt and
ammonium
381 citrate
regulator J food use condiments
Anticaking J Other:
(may be GM) agent supplements
Calcium Stomach upset; Food: canned
385
disodium EDTA Preservative ? kidney damage; fish, fruit drinks
Other:
E385 Antioxidant K haematuria; muscle
cramps pharmaceutical
Alginic acid Regarded as safe in Food: yoghurt,
400 Thickener food use; high levels ice-cream
E400 Stabiliser
J lead to impairment Other: antacid
of iron uptake preparations
Sodium alginate Regarded as safe in Food: dairy
Thickener food use; high levels products
401
E401
Stabiliser J lead to impairment Other: indiges-
Gelling agent of iron uptake tion tablets
Potassium Regarded as safe in Food: bakery
alginate Thickener food use; high levels wares, cheese
402
E402 Stabiliser
J lead to impairment Other: dental
of iron uptake impressions
Ammonium Regarded as safe in Food: icing,
alginate Thickener food use; high levels soft drink, soup
403
E403 Stabiliser
J lead to impairment Other:
of iron uptake cigarettes
Calcium alginate Regarded as safe in Food: bakery
Thickener food use; high levels wares, cheese
404
E404
Stabiliser J lead to impairment Other: burn
Gelling agent of iron uptake dressings

32
 INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Propylene glycol Some people exhibit Food: beer,
405 alginate Thickener ?
adverse reactions ice-cream
E405 Emulsifier K
to large amounts of Other:
propylene glycol cosmetics
Agar Regarded as safe Food: bakery
Thickener
406 in food use; large wares, cheese
E406
Gelling agent J
amounts can cause Other: dental
Stabiliser flatulence & bloating impressions
Carrageenan Inflammatory bowel Food: desserts,
disease; degraded infant formula,
Thickener
407 carrageenan and ice-cream
E407
Gelling agent L
polygeenan may be Other:
Stabiliser a cause of gastroin- personal
testinal cancer lubricants
Processed As this is a form of Food: same as
eucheuma
407a seaweed
Thickener
Gelling agent ?
carrageenan (407),
some consider it
carrageenan
Other:
E407a
Stabiliser K
to have the same unknown
potential effects
Arabinogalactan Regarded as safe Food: pudding
or larch gum Thickener
in food use at low mixes
409 Gelling agent J
levels Other: hand-
Stabiliser made soap
Locust bean Regarded as safe Food: infant
410 gum or carob Thickener in food use; large foods
E410 bean gum Stabiliser J amounts can cause Other:
flatulence & bloating cosmetics
Guar gum Regarded as safe Food: infant
in foods use at low foods, cheese
412 Thickener levels; excess can Other: cosmet-
E412 Stabiliser J cause nausea, flatu- ics, slimming
lence, abdominal agents
cramps, diarrhoea
Tragacanth gum Regarded as safe Food: sauces,
in food use at low salad dressings
413 Thickener
E413 Stabiliser J levels; adverse Other:
effects and allergic toothpaste,
reactions are rare pharmaceutical
33
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Acacia or gum Regarded as safe in Food: infant
414 Arabic Thickener food use; may rarely foods, jelly
E414 Stabiliser J cause food allergy Other: shoe
reactions polish, mascara
Xanthan gum Regarded as safe in Food: ice
(may be GM) food use; may cause cream, infant
415 Thickener foods, jelly
E415 Stabiliser J intestinal gripes and
diarrhoea in some Other: cosmet-
people ics, sunscreen
Karaya gum Allergic reactions Food: citrus &
spice flavours
416 Thickener ? from the powdered
gum include hives, Other: rouge,
E416 Stabiliser K dermatitis, rhinitis shaving cream,
and asthma beauty masks
Gellan gum Regarded as safe Food: jam,
Thickener
418 in foods use at low jelly, sauces
E418
Gelling agent J levels; excess can Other: pet food,
Stabiliser cause diarrhoea toothpaste
Sorbitol or Excess can cause Food: dietetic
sorbitol syrup weight loss, bowel foods, chewing
(may be GM) gum, pastilles
420
Sweetener
Humectant ? problems, flatulence,
colic, diarrhoea and Other: dental
E420
Emulsifier K abdominal disten- and cosmetic
sion; may alter drug creams
absorption
Mannitol Nausea; vomiting; Food: dietary
foods, sweets
421
(may be GM)
Sweetener ? diarrhoea; hypersen-
sitivity reactions; may Other: medical
E421 Humectant K induce or exacerbate uses
kidney disease
Glycerin or Regarded as safe Food: bakery
glycerol in food use at low wares,
422 (may be levels; excess confectionery
E422 petroleum
Humectant J can cause thirst, Other: cosmet-
derived; may be nausea, headache ics, sunscreen,
GM) and diarrhoea toothpaste
34
INS Additive Name Functions Code Potential Effects Possible Uses
Polyethylene (40) May raise absorption Food: bakery
stearate
431 (petroleum derived; Emulsifier ?
of liquid paraffin and
other fat-soluble
wares, wine,
puddings
E431 may be GM; may
be animal derived)
substancesK Other:
unknown
Polysorbate 80 or May raise absorption Food: pickles,
polyoxyethylene of liquid paraffin and icing, custard
(20) sorbitan
433 monooleate Emulsifier ? other fat-soluble Other: cosmet-
ics, sunscreen,
E433 (petroleum K substances; may
contain traces of vaccines
derived; may be
animal derived) harmful impurities
Polysorbate 60 or May raise absorption Food: pickles,
polyoxyethylene of liquid paraffin and icing, custard
(20) sorbitan
435 monostearate Emulsifier ? other fat-soluble Other: cosmet-
ics, sunscreen,
substances; may
E435 (petroleum derived; K contain traces of shampoo, anti-
may be GM; may aging products
be animal derived) harmful impurities
Polysorbate 65 or May raise absorption Food: fillings &
polyoxyethylene of liquid paraffin and icing, custard
(20) sorbitan
436 tristearate Emulsifier ? other fat-soluble Other:
cosmetics,
substances
E436 (petroleum derived; K sunscreen
may be GM; may
be animal derived)
Pectins Regarded as safe Food: marma-
(use is restricted in
Thickener in food use at low lade, sauces
440 the EU) levels; excess can Other: anti-
E440
Stabiliser J cause flatulence, aging products,
Gelling agent diarrhoea, abdominal shampoo
distension
Ammonium salts Regarded as safe in Food: cocoa
of phosphatidic food use and chocolate
442 acid Emulsifier J products
E442 (may be animal
derived; may be
J Other:
unknown
GM)

35