What is E284?
E284 is Boric Acid — a mineral acid permitted only in caviar, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E284 (Boric Acid)?
E284 is the E-number for boric 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. A mineral acid permitted only in caviar. The 'E' in E284 stands for Europe — the number was granted under the EU additive authorisation system — but as the safety section below explains, regulators no longer agree that E284 belongs in food everywhere: it is banned or heavily restricted in at least one major market. We break down exactly where it stands, plus the vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E284, in detail below.
Where is E284 found?
E284 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 (E284) or by its full name, boric acid. Common foods that may contain E284 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E284 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E284 safe?
E284 is subject to significant restrictions. Its permitted uses in the EU are very limited, and most people will rarely encounter it. Where concerns exist, they relate to toxicity at higher intakes, which is why its use is tightly controlled.
EFSA status: Authorised only for restricted uses in the EU
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E284 vegan?
E284 is vegan. A mineral acid permitted only in caviar, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E284 →Is E284 halal?
E284 is halal. A mineral acid permitted only in caviar, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E284 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E284 in food?
E284 is Boric Acid — a mineral acid permitted only in caviar, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E284 safe to eat?
E284 is only permitted in very restricted uses due to safety concerns at higher intakes, and is best avoided where possible.
Is E284 vegan?
E284 is vegan. A mineral acid permitted only in caviar, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E284 halal?
E284 is halal. A mineral acid permitted only in caviar, 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).