What is E343?
E343 is Magnesium Phosphates — magnesium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E343 (Magnesium Phosphates)?
E343 is the E-number for magnesium 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. Magnesium salts of phosphoric acid. Like every E-number, E343 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 E343 in detail below.
Where is E343 found?
E343 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 (E343) or by its full name, magnesium phosphates. Common foods that may contain E343 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E343 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E343 safe?
E343 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 E343.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E343 vegan?
E343 is vegan. Magnesium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E343 →Is E343 halal?
E343 is halal. Magnesium salts of phosphoric acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E343 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E343 in food?
E343 is Magnesium Phosphates — magnesium salts of phosphoric acid, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E343 safe to eat?
Yes. E343 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E343 vegan?
E343 is vegan. Magnesium salts of phosphoric acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E343 halal?
E343 is halal. Magnesium 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).