What is E938?
E938 is Argon — an inert gas from the atmosphere, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
What is E938 (Argon)?
E938 is the E-number for argon, one of the packaging gases & propellants group of food additives (E290–E949). Additives in this group protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers. An inert gas from the atmosphere. Like every E-number, E938 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 E938 in detail below.
Where is E938 found?
E938 is typically used in bagged salads, crisps, fizzy drinks, squirty cream and modified-atmosphere packs. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E938) or by its full name, argon. Common foods that may contain E938 include:
- Bagged salads
- Crisps
- Fizzy drinks
- Squirty cream and modified-atmosphere packs
Full guide: foods containing E938 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E938 safe?
E938 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 E938.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E938 vegan?
E938 is vegan. An inert gas from the atmosphere, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E938 →Is E938 halal?
E938 is halal. An inert gas from the atmosphere, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E938 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E938 in food?
E938 is Argon — an inert gas from the atmosphere, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
Is E938 safe to eat?
Yes. E938 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E938 vegan?
E938 is vegan. An inert gas from the atmosphere, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E938 halal?
E938 is halal. An inert gas from the atmosphere, 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).