What is E542?
E542 is Bone Phosphate — a phosphate made from ground animal bones — not vegan and generally treated as haram.
What is E542 (Bone Phosphate)?
E542 is the E-number for bone phosphate, one of the anti-caking agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group stop powders and granules clumping together. Made from ground animal bones. Bone phosphate is exactly what it sounds like — phosphate extracted from ground, degreased animal bones. It is now rare in food but still appears in supplements and toothpaste. Like every E-number, E542 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 E542 in detail below.
Where is E542 found?
E542 is typically used in table salt, spice mixes, powdered drinks, grated cheese and dry mixes. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E542) or by its full name, bone phosphate. Common foods that may contain E542 include:
- Some supplements and tablets
- Toothpaste
- Historically: dried milk and cosmetics
Full guide: foods containing E542 and how to spot it on labels →
E542 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Bone Phosphate safe?
Is E542 safe?
E542 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 E542 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 E542 vegan?
E542 is not vegan. Made from ground animal bones.
Full vegan status guide for E542 →Is E542 halal?
E542 is treated as haram unless certified. Made from ground animal bones, and without halal certification the source cannot be verified as permissible.
Full halal status guide for E542 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E542 in food?
E542 is Bone Phosphate — a phosphate made from ground animal bones — not vegan and generally treated as haram.
Is E542 safe to eat?
E542 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 E542 vegan?
E542 is not vegan. Made from ground animal bones.
Is E542 halal?
E542 is treated as haram unless certified. Made from ground animal bones, and without halal certification the source cannot be verified as permissible.
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).