Is Disodium Ribonucleotides Safe?
Disodium Ribonucleotides is the additive E635 — a blend of disodium inosinate and guanylate that can be derived from meat or fish, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
Is Disodium Ribonucleotides safe to eat?
E635 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E635.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Disodium Ribonucleotides?
E635 is the E-number for disodium 5'-ribonucleotides, one of the flavour enhancers group of food additives (E600–E699). Additives in this group boost the existing savoury flavour of foods. A blend of disodium inosinate and guanylate that can be derived from meat or fish. Like every E-number, E635 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E635 in detail below.
What foods contain Disodium Ribonucleotides?
E635 (Disodium Ribonucleotides) is typically found in:
- Crisps
- Instant noodles
- Soups
- Stock cubes
- Savoury snacks and ready meals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Disodium Ribonucleotides bad for you?
Yes. E635 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Disodium Ribonucleotides vegan?
E635 is uncertain for vegans — it is a blend of disodium inosinate and guanylate that can be derived from meat or fish, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is Disodium Ribonucleotides halal?
E635 is treated as haram unless certified. A blend of disodium inosinate and guanylate that can be derived from meat or fish, and without halal certification the source cannot be verified as permissible.
Full guide to E635 (Disodium 5'-Ribonucleotides) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).