What is E285?
E285 is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) — a mineral salt permitted only in caviar, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E285 (Sodium Tetraborate)?
E285 is the E-number for sodium tetraborate, 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 salt permitted only in caviar. The 'E' in E285 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 E285 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 E285, in detail below.
Where is E285 found?
E285 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 (E285) or by its full name, sodium tetraborate. Common foods that may contain E285 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E285 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E285 safe?
E285 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 E285 vegan?
E285 is vegan. A mineral salt permitted only in caviar, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E285 →Is E285 halal?
E285 is halal. A mineral salt permitted only in caviar, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E285 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E285 in food?
E285 is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) — a mineral salt permitted only in caviar, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E285 safe to eat?
E285 is only permitted in very restricted uses due to safety concerns at higher intakes, and is best avoided where possible.
Is E285 vegan?
E285 is vegan. A mineral salt permitted only in caviar, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E285 halal?
E285 is halal. A mineral salt 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).