What is E650?
E650 is Zinc Acetate — a synthetic zinc salt, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
What is E650 (Zinc Acetate)?
E650 is the E-number for zinc acetate, one of the flavour enhancers group of food additives (E600–E699). Additives in this group boost the existing savoury flavour of foods. A synthetic zinc salt. Like every E-number, E650 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 E650 in detail below.
Where is E650 found?
E650 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 (E650) or by its full name, zinc acetate. Common foods that may contain E650 include:
- Crisps
- Instant noodles
- Soups
- Stock cubes
- Savoury snacks and ready meals
Full guide: foods containing E650 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E650 safe?
E650 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 E650.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E650 vegan?
E650 is vegan. A synthetic zinc salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E650 →Is E650 halal?
E650 is halal. A synthetic zinc salt, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E650 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E650 in food?
E650 is Zinc Acetate — a synthetic zinc salt, used as a flavour enhancer to help boost the existing savoury flavour of foods.
Is E650 safe to eat?
Yes. E650 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E650 vegan?
E650 is vegan. A synthetic zinc salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E650 halal?
E650 is halal. A synthetic zinc salt, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).