What is E943a?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Butane
Packaging Gases & Propellants ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E943a is Butane โ€” a gas refined from petroleum, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.

What is E943a (Butane)?

E943a is the E-number for butane, one of the packaging gases & propellants group of food additives (E290โ€“E949). Additives in this group protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers. A gas refined from petroleum. Like every E-number, E943a has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union โ€” 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 E943a in detail below.

Where is E943a found?

E943a 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 (E943a) or by its full name, butane. Common foods that may contain E943a include:

Full guide: foods containing E943a and how to spot it on labels โ†’

Is E943a safe?

E943a 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 E943a.

EFSA status: Authorised in the EU โ€” no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority

Is E943a vegan?

E943a is vegan. A gas refined from petroleum, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E943a โ†’

Is E943a halal?

E943a is halal. A gas refined from petroleum, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E943a โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E943a in food?

E943a is Butane โ€” a gas refined from petroleum, used as a packaging gases & propellant to help protect packaged food from spoilage or propel it from containers.

Is E943a safe to eat?

Yes. E943a is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E943a vegan?

E943a is vegan. A gas refined from petroleum, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E943a halal?

E943a is halal. A gas refined from petroleum, with no haram source involved.

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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

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