What is E334?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Tartaric Acid
Antioxidants ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E334 is Tartaric Acid โ€” extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.

What is E334 (Tartaric Acid)?

E334 is the E-number for tartaric acid, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300โ€“E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E334 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union โ€” 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 E334 in detail below.

Where is E334 found?

E334 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 (E334) or by its full name, tartaric acid. Common foods that may contain E334 include:

Full guide: foods containing E334 and how to spot it on labels โ†’

E334 is often searched by its common name โ€” see also: Is Tartaric Acid safe?

Is E334 safe?

E334 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 E334.

EFSA status: Authorised in the EU โ€” no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority

Is E334 vegan?

E334 is vegan. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E334 โ†’

Is E334 halal?

E334 is halal. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E334 โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E334 in food?

E334 is Tartaric Acid โ€” extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.

Is E334 safe to eat?

Yes. E334 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E334 vegan?

E334 is vegan. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E334 halal?

E334 is halal. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.

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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

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