What is E260? Acetic Acid Explained
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E260 is Acetic Acid — the acid in vinegar, used as a preservative and flavour agent — one of the most ancient food additives known.
What is E260 (Acetic Acid)?
E260 is Acetic Acid, a food additive classified as a acidity regulator that control pH and add tartness. The acid in vinegar, used as a preservative and flavour agent — one of the most ancient food additives known. You'll find it in soft drinks, jams, canned goods and many other packaged foods. Acetic Acid is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E260 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E260 found?
E260 (Acetic Acid) is found in soft drinks, jams, canned goods, baked products, cheese, wine.
- soft drinks
- jams
- canned goods
- baked products
- cheese
- wine
Also known as: Acetic Acid
Is E260 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E260 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Acetic Acid to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Acetic Acid — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E260. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Related to E260 (Acetic Acid)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
Recipes using whole, unprocessed ingredients with no E-numbers.
Whole Food Cooking Guide
Guides to cooking from scratch and reducing processed food intake.
E260 FAQs
What is E260 in food?
E260 is Acetic Acid — the acid in vinegar, used as a preservative and flavour agent — one of the most ancient food additives known.
Is E260 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E260 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Acetic Acid to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E260 vegan?
E260 (Acetic Acid) is vegan. It is derived from fermentation or synthetic, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E260 halal?
E260 (Acetic Acid) is halal. It is derived from fermentation or synthetic, which involves no haram sources.
Related Acidity Regulators additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA