What is E260?
E260 is Acetic Acid — simply the acid in vinegar — completely safe, vegan and halal.
What is E260 (Acetic Acid)?
E260 is the E-number for acetic 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. The acid in vinegar, produced by fermentation or synthesis. E260 sounds industrial but it is just acetic acid — the same compound that gives vinegar its sharp taste, used by humans for thousands of years. Like every E-number, E260 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 E260 in detail below.
Where is E260 found?
E260 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 (E260) or by its full name, acetic acid. Common foods that may contain E260 include:
- Pickles
- Chutneys
- Sauces
- Salad dressings
- Crisps (salt and vinegar)
Full guide: foods containing E260 and how to spot it on labels →
E260 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Acetic Acid safe?
Is E260 safe?
E260 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 E260.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E260 vegan?
E260 is vegan. The acid in vinegar, produced by fermentation or synthesis, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E260 →Is E260 halal?
E260 is halal. The acid in vinegar, produced by fermentation or synthesis, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E260 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E260 in food?
E260 is Acetic Acid — simply the acid in vinegar — completely safe, vegan and halal.
Is E260 safe to eat?
Yes. E260 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E260 vegan?
E260 is vegan. The acid in vinegar, produced by fermentation or synthesis, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E260 halal?
E260 is halal. The acid in vinegar, produced by fermentation or synthesis, 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).