What is E434?
E434 is Polysorbate 40 — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
What is E434 (Polysorbate 40)?
E434 is the E-number for polysorbate 40, one of the emulsifiers group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water. A synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Like every E-number, E434 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 E434 in detail below.
Where is E434 found?
E434 is typically used in bread, margarine, chocolate, ice cream, cakes and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E434) or by its full name, polysorbate 40. Common foods that may contain E434 include:
- Bread
- Margarine
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Cakes and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E434 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E434 safe?
E434 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E434 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 E434 vegan?
E434 is uncertain for vegans — it is a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E434 →Is E434 halal?
E434 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E434 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E434 in food?
E434 is Polysorbate 40 — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
Is E434 safe to eat?
E434 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 E434 vegan?
E434 is uncertain for vegans — it is a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E434 halal?
E434 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
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).