What is E479b?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Thermally Oxidised Soya Bean Oil
Emulsifiers ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E479b is Thermally Oxidised Soya Bean Oil โ€” made from soya bean oil, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.

What is E479b (Thermally Oxidised Soya Bean Oil)?

E479b is the E-number for thermally oxidised soya bean oil, one of the emulsifiers group of food additives (E400โ€“E499). Additives in this group help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water. Made from soya bean oil. Like every E-number, E479b has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union โ€” 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 E479b in detail below.

Where is E479b found?

E479b 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 (E479b) or by its full name, thermally oxidised soya bean oil. Common foods that may contain E479b include:

Full guide: foods containing E479b and how to spot it on labels โ†’

Is E479b safe?

E479b 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 E479b.

EFSA status: Authorised in the EU โ€” no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority

Is E479b vegan?

E479b is vegan. Made from soya bean oil, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E479b โ†’

Is E479b halal?

E479b is halal. Made from soya bean oil, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E479b โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E479b in food?

E479b is Thermally Oxidised Soya Bean Oil โ€” made from soya bean oil, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.

Is E479b safe to eat?

Yes. E479b is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E479b vegan?

E479b is vegan. Made from soya bean oil, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E479b halal?

E479b is halal. Made from soya bean oil, with no haram source involved.

This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

Concerned about food additives?

Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.

View on Amazon โ†’

Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Last updated: