Is Rosemary Extract Safe?
Rosemary Extract is the additive E392 — extracted from rosemary leaves, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is Rosemary Extract safe to eat?
E392 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 E392.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Rosemary Extract?
E392 is the E-number for extracts of rosemary, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Extracted from rosemary leaves. Like every E-number, E392 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 E392 in detail below.
What foods contain Rosemary Extract?
E392 (Rosemary Extract) is typically found in:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rosemary Extract bad for you?
Yes. E392 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Rosemary Extract vegan?
E392 is vegan. Extracted from rosemary leaves, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Rosemary Extract halal?
E392 is halal. Extracted from rosemary leaves, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E392 (Extracts of Rosemary) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).