What is E420? Sorbitol Explained
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E420 is Sorbitol — a sugar alcohol from plant glucose — sweet but with fewer calories than sugar, and a laxative effect at high doses.
What is E420 (Sorbitol)?
E420 is Sorbitol, a food additive classified as a humectant that retain moisture and prevent drying out. A sugar alcohol from plant glucose — sweet but with fewer calories than sugar, and a laxative effect at high doses. You'll find it in baked goods, confectionery, dried fruits and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E420 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E420 found?
E420 (Sorbitol) is found in baked goods, confectionery, dried fruits, tobacco products, cosmetics.
- baked goods
- confectionery
- dried fruits
- tobacco products
- cosmetics
Also known as: Sorbitol
Is E420 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E420 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sorbitol to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Sorbitol — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E420. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Related to E420 (Sorbitol)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
Recipes using whole, unprocessed ingredients with no E-numbers.
Whole Food Cooking Guide
Guides to cooking from scratch and reducing processed food intake.
E420 FAQs
What is E420 in food?
E420 is Sorbitol — a sugar alcohol from plant glucose — sweet but with fewer calories than sugar, and a laxative effect at high doses.
Is E420 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E420 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sorbitol to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E420 vegan?
E420 (Sorbitol) is vegan. It is derived from plant (glucose), with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E420 halal?
E420 (Sorbitol) is halal. It is derived from plant (glucose), which involves no haram sources.
Related Humectants additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA