What is E339?
E339 is Sodium Phosphates — sodium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E339 (Sodium Phosphates)?
E339 is the E-number for sodium phosphates, 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. Sodium salts of phosphoric acid. Like every E-number, E339 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 E339 in detail below.
Where is E339 found?
E339 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 (E339) or by its full name, sodium phosphates. Common foods that may contain E339 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E339 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E339 safe?
E339 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation of phosphates found that total phosphate intake exceeds the safe level for some children and teenagers with diets high in processed food. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E339 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E339 vegan?
E339 is vegan. Sodium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E339 →Is E339 halal?
E339 is halal. Sodium salts of phosphoric acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E339 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E339 in food?
E339 is Sodium Phosphates — sodium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E339 safe to eat?
E339 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E339 vegan?
E339 is vegan. Sodium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E339 halal?
E339 is halal. Sodium salts of phosphoric 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
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).