Foods Containing E920 (L-Cysteine)
E920 (L-Cysteine) is L-cysteine — an amino acid used in bread making; traditionally sourced from human hair or duck/chicken feathers, now also made synthetically. Here are the foods where you'll find it on the label.
Common foods that contain E920
- bread
- pasta
- pizza bases
- bakery products
- rolls
In the UK and EU, E920 must be declared either as "E920" or as "L-Cysteine" in the ingredients list.
Is E920 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E920 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links L-Cysteine to harm at normal dietary intakes.
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Reduce or replace E920
Products relevant to E920 and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
Recipes using whole, unprocessed ingredients with no E-numbers.
Whole Food Cooking Guide
Guides to cooking from scratch and reducing processed food intake.
Food Intolerance Test Kit
Find out which additives or foods are affecting you.
Frequently asked questions
What foods contain E920?
E920 (L-Cysteine) is commonly found in bread, pasta, pizza bases, bakery products, rolls. It must be declared on UK/EU labels as either "E920" or "L-Cysteine".
Is E920 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E920 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links L-Cysteine to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E920 vegan?
E920 source varies: human/duck feathers or synthetic. Cannot be confirmed vegan without manufacturer verification.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA