Is Natamycin Safe?
Natamycin is the additive E235 — a natural antifungal produced by bacterial fermentation, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is Natamycin safe to eat?
E235 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 E235.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Natamycin?
E235 is the E-number for natamycin, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. A natural antifungal produced by bacterial fermentation. Like every E-number, E235 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 E235 in detail below.
What foods contain Natamycin?
E235 (Natamycin) is typically found in:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Natamycin bad for you?
Yes. E235 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Natamycin vegan?
E235 is vegan. A natural antifungal produced by bacterial fermentation, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Natamycin halal?
E235 is halal. A natural antifungal produced by bacterial fermentation, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E235 (Natamycin) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).