What is E623?
E623 is Calcium Diglutamate — the calcium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
What is E623 (Calcium Diglutamate)?
E623 is the E-number for calcium diglutamate, one of the flavour enhancers group of food additives (E600–E699). Additives in this group boost the existing savoury flavour of foods. The calcium salt of glutamic acid. Like every E-number, E623 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 E623 in detail below.
Where is E623 found?
E623 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 (E623) or by its full name, calcium diglutamate. Common foods that may contain E623 include:
- Crisps
- Instant noodles
- Soups
- Stock cubes
- Savoury snacks and ready meals
Full guide: foods containing E623 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E623 safe?
E623 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 E623.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E623 vegan?
E623 is vegan. The calcium salt of glutamic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E623 →Is E623 halal?
E623 is halal. The calcium salt of glutamic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E623 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E623 in food?
E623 is Calcium Diglutamate — the calcium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
Is E623 safe to eat?
Yes. E623 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E623 vegan?
E623 is vegan. The calcium salt of glutamic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E623 halal?
E623 is halal. The calcium salt of glutamic acid, 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).