Should we genuinely be afraid of 'E'-marked ingredients in our food?
Tim Klein
2026-03-21
7 min. read
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Ingredients that are marked with the 'E' symbol on food labels are often a cause for concern among consumers. Many people believe that these ingredients pose a risk to health and even life. But are these fears truly warranted?
The meaning of the „E” symbol on the food product label
The „E” symbol in the composition of the food product denotes that it contains an additive substance, which is not consumed as a standalone food product but is added for specific effects. Food manufacturers primarily focus on improving the organoleptic properties of the product. The addition of certain substances may impact the color, texture, or aroma of the product. Other purposes of using additives include extending the shelf life of the food and obtaining new products, such as sugar-free products. Food additives are divided into five groups: colorants (E 100-E 199), preservatives and acidity regulators (E 200-E 299), antioxidants (E 300-E 399), stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickeners, and fillers (E 400-E 499), and other substances (above E 500).
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