What is E939?
E939 is Helium — an inert gas, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
What is E939 (Helium)?
E939 is the E-number for helium, 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. Like every E-number, E939 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 E939 in detail below.
Where is E939 found?
E939 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 (E939) or by its full name, helium. Common foods that may contain E939 include:
- Bagged salads
- Crisps
- Fizzy drinks
- Squirty cream and modified-atmosphere packs
Full guide: foods containing E939 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E939 safe?
E939 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 E939.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E939 vegan?
E939 is vegan. An inert gas, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E939 →Is E939 halal?
E939 is halal. An inert gas, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E939 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E939 in food?
E939 is Helium — an inert gas, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.
Is E939 safe to eat?
Yes. E939 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E939 vegan?
E939 is vegan. An inert gas, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E939 halal?
E939 is halal. An inert gas, 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).