What is E340?
E340 is Potassium Phosphates — potassium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E340 (Potassium Phosphates)?
E340 is the E-number for potassium 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. Potassium salts of phosphoric acid. Like every E-number, E340 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 E340 in detail below.
Where is E340 found?
E340 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 (E340) or by its full name, potassium phosphates. Common foods that may contain E340 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E340 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E340 safe?
E340 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 E340 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 E340 vegan?
E340 is vegan. Potassium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E340 →Is E340 halal?
E340 is halal. Potassium salts of phosphoric acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E340 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E340 in food?
E340 is Potassium Phosphates — potassium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E340 safe to eat?
E340 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 E340 vegan?
E340 is vegan. Potassium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E340 halal?
E340 is halal. Potassium 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).