What is E210?
E210 is Benzoic Acid — produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E210 (Benzoic Acid)?
E210 is the E-number for benzoic acid, 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. Produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries. Like every E-number, E210 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 E210 in detail below.
Where is E210 found?
E210 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E210) or by its full name, benzoic acid. Common foods that may contain E210 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E210 and how to spot it on labels →
E210 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Benzoic Acid safe?
Is E210 safe?
E210 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. It was included in the 2007 Southampton study on food additives and hyperactivity in children, and some parents choose to avoid it for that reason. Sulphites are among the 14 major allergens that must be declared on food labels, because they can trigger asthma attacks and allergic-type reactions in sensitive people. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E210 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E210 vegan?
E210 is vegan. Produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E210 →Is E210 halal?
E210 is halal. Produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E210 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E210 in food?
E210 is Benzoic Acid — produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E210 safe to eat?
E210 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E210 vegan?
E210 is vegan. Produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E210 halal?
E210 is halal. Produced synthetically, and found naturally in some berries, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).