What is E101?
E101 is Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) — produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E101 (Riboflavin)?
E101 is the E-number for riboflavin, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs. Like every E-number, E101 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 E101 in detail below.
Where is E101 found?
E101 is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E101) or by its full name, riboflavin. Common foods that may contain E101 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E101 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E101 safe?
E101 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 E101.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E101 vegan?
E101 is uncertain for vegans — it is produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E101 →Is E101 halal?
E101 is mashbooh (doubtful) — produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E101 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E101 in food?
E101 is Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) — produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E101 safe to eat?
Yes. E101 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E101 vegan?
E101 is uncertain for vegans — it is produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E101 halal?
E101 is mashbooh (doubtful) — produced by fermentation, though it can historically be sourced from milk or eggs. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).