What is E234?
E234 is Nisin — a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E234 (Nisin)?
E234 is the E-number for nisin, 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 preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media. Like every E-number, E234 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 E234 in detail below.
Where is E234 found?
E234 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 (E234) or by its full name, nisin. Common foods that may contain E234 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E234 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E234 safe?
E234 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 E234.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E234 vegan?
E234 is uncertain for vegans — it is a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E234 →Is E234 halal?
E234 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E234 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E234 in food?
E234 is Nisin — a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E234 safe to eat?
Yes. E234 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E234 vegan?
E234 is uncertain for vegans — it is a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E234 halal?
E234 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a natural preservative produced by bacterial fermentation, often on dairy-based media. 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).