What is E472e?
E472e is DATEM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Esters) — based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
What is E472e (DATEM)?
E472e is the E-number for DATEM, 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. Based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. Like every E-number, E472e 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 E472e in detail below.
Where is E472e found?
E472e 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 (E472e) or by its full name, DATEM. Common foods that may contain E472e include:
- Bread
- Margarine
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Cakes and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E472e and how to spot it on labels →
E472e is often searched by its common name — see also: Is DATEM safe?
Is E472e safe?
E472e 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 E472e.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E472e vegan?
E472e is uncertain for vegans — it is based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E472e →Is E472e halal?
E472e is mashbooh (doubtful) — based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E472e →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E472e in food?
E472e is DATEM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Esters) — based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
Is E472e safe to eat?
Yes. E472e is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E472e vegan?
E472e is uncertain for vegans — it is based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E472e halal?
E472e is mashbooh (doubtful) — based on mono- and diglycerides, whose fats can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. 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).