What is E513?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Sulphuric Acid
Acidity Regulators ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E513 is Sulphuric Acid โ€” a mineral acid produced industrially, used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.

What is E513 (Sulphuric Acid)?

E513 is the E-number for sulphuric acid, one of the acidity regulators group of food additives (E500โ€“E599). Additives in this group control the acidity or alkalinity of food. A mineral acid produced industrially. Like every E-number, E513 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 E513 in detail below.

Where is E513 found?

E513 is typically used in baked goods, soft drinks, sweets, dairy products and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E513) or by its full name, sulphuric acid. Common foods that may contain E513 include:

Full guide: foods containing E513 and how to spot it on labels โ†’

Is E513 safe?

E513 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 E513.

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

Is E513 vegan?

E513 is vegan. A mineral acid produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E513 โ†’

Is E513 halal?

E513 is halal. A mineral acid produced industrially, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E513 โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E513 in food?

E513 is Sulphuric Acid โ€” a mineral acid produced industrially, used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.

Is E513 safe to eat?

Yes. E513 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E513 vegan?

E513 is vegan. A mineral acid produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E513 halal?

E513 is halal. A mineral acid produced industrially, with no haram source involved.

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

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