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E numbers on the label

An E number is an additive approved by the EU: colour (E100–E199), preservative (E200–E299), antioxidant (E300–E399), thickener and emulsifier (E400–E499), acidity regulator (E500–E599), flavour enhancer (E600–E699) and sweetener (E900–E999). Approved means found safe in normal amounts, not that everyone tolerates them.

What E numbers on the label mean

An additive may be listed by name or by E number, always with its function: ‘conserveermiddel (natriumbenzoaat)’ or ‘conserveermiddel (E211)’.
Sulphites (E220–E228) are also an allergen: they are listed with the allergens as well.
Some colours (E102, E104, E110, E122, E124, E129) carry a mandatory warning about children's attention.

How to find products without E numbers

Search for the number in the search bar, for example ‘E621’, to see every product with that flavour enhancer.
‘Zonder kunstmatige toevoegingen’ (no artificial additives) is not a legal claim; the label itself decides.

What this site does and does not do

We read the ingredient list and the allergen declaration as the supermarket publishes them, and hide every product that contains the allergen. Products without allergen information are hidden by default too: unknown is not the same as safe. What we cannot do is read the pack in the shop. Recipes change, and the information here can lag behind. When in doubt the label in your hand decides, and for questions about your health your doctor or dietitian.

More guides

Palm oilWhere palm oil is, and the names it goes by on the label.SugarSugar-free, low-sugar or no added sugar: three claims, three meanings.VeganRecognising animal ingredients, also when they hide behind an E number.What is a food allergyWhat happens in your body, which symptoms belong to it, and the difference with an intolerance.Reading the labelBold, the order and the pitfalls: reading a label in ten seconds.May contain tracesWhat the warning does and does not say, and when to take it seriously.AnaphylaxisRecognising a severe allergic reaction, and what to do then.

Per allergen — milk, gluten, nuts, peanut and the rest.

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