What is E213?
E213 is Calcium Benzoate — the calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E213 (Calcium Benzoate)?
E213 is the E-number for calcium benzoate, 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. The calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E213 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 E213 in detail below.
Where is E213 found?
E213 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 (E213) or by its full name, calcium benzoate. Common foods that may contain E213 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E213 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E213 safe?
E213 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. 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 E213 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 E213 vegan?
E213 is vegan. The calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E213 →Is E213 halal?
E213 is halal. The calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E213 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E213 in food?
E213 is Calcium Benzoate — the calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E213 safe to eat?
E213 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 E213 vegan?
E213 is vegan. The calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E213 halal?
E213 is halal. The calcium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
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).