What is E620?
E620 is Glutamic Acid — produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
What is E620 (Glutamic Acid)?
E620 is the E-number for glutamic acid, one of the flavour enhancers group of food additives (E600–E699). Additives in this group boost the existing savoury flavour of foods. Produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars. Like every E-number, E620 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 E620 in detail below.
Where is E620 found?
E620 is typically used in crisps, instant noodles, soups, stock cubes, savoury snacks and ready meals. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E620) or by its full name, glutamic acid. Common foods that may contain E620 include:
- Crisps
- Instant noodles
- Soups
- Stock cubes
- Savoury snacks and ready meals
Full guide: foods containing E620 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E620 safe?
E620 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 E620.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E620 vegan?
E620 is vegan. Produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E620 →Is E620 halal?
E620 is halal. Produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E620 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E620 in food?
E620 is Glutamic Acid — produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
Is E620 safe to eat?
Yes. E620 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E620 vegan?
E620 is vegan. Produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E620 halal?
E620 is halal. Produced by bacterial fermentation of plant sugars, with no haram source involved.
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).