What is E316?
E316 is Sodium Erythorbate — the sodium salt of erythorbic acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E316 (Sodium Erythorbate)?
E316 is the E-number for sodium erythorbate, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. The sodium salt of erythorbic acid. Like every E-number, E316 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 E316 in detail below.
Where is E316 found?
E316 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E316) or by its full name, sodium erythorbate. Common foods that may contain E316 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E316 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E316 safe?
E316 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 E316.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E316 vegan?
E316 is vegan. The sodium salt of erythorbic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E316 →Is E316 halal?
E316 is halal. The sodium salt of erythorbic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E316 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E316 in food?
E316 is Sodium Erythorbate — the sodium salt of erythorbic acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E316 safe to eat?
Yes. E316 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E316 vegan?
E316 is vegan. The sodium salt of erythorbic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E316 halal?
E316 is halal. The sodium salt of erythorbic acid, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).