If you sell food products in the EU, the E-number on your ingredient list isn’t decoration — it’s the legal identity of the additive, tied to a specific entry in EU Regulation 1333/2008 that defines exactly which food categories can use it and at what level. Here’s how the phosphate E-numbers map to our product range.
What E-numbers are
An E-number is the European identifier for a food additive that has passed EU safety assessment and is authorized under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. The “E” simply signals it’s approved for use within the European Union (and several other jurisdictions that reference the same list); the number identifies the specific substance or substance family.
Phosphate E-numbers at a glance
| E-Number | Substance | Waking Lion Product |
|---|---|---|
| E338 | Phosphoric acid | Phosphoric Acid |
| E339 | Sodium phosphates (i, ii, iii) | MSP / DSP / TSP |
| E340 | Potassium phosphates (i, ii, iii) | MKP / DKP / TKP |
| E341 | Calcium phosphates (i, ii, iii) | MCP / DCP / TCP |
| E450 | Diphosphates | SAPP / TSPP / TSAPP |
| E451 | Triphosphates | STPP |
| E452 | Polyphosphates | SHMP |
Quantum satis vs numeric limits
Phosphates are authorized under EU rules either at a specific numeric maximum level (mg/kg) for a given food category, or under the principle of quantum satis (QS) — meaning “as much as needed” for the intended technological purpose, with no fixed numeric ceiling but subject to good manufacturing practice. Which basis applies depends on the food category, not the phosphate itself — the same E-number can be QS in one category and numerically capped in another.
Why this matters for formulation
A common combined limit also applies across all phosphates used together in many categories (often expressed as total P₂O₅), so if your formulation uses more than one phosphate, the combined total — not each ingredient individually — is what must stay within the category limit.
Labeling requirements
EU labeling rules generally require the functional class name (such as “acidity regulator,” “stabilizer,” “emulsifier,” or “raising agent”) followed by either the E-number or the specific name — for example, “Acidity Regulator (E450)” or “Diphosphates.” Requirements can vary by product category and destination member state, so always confirm current labeling wording with your regulatory team before finalizing packaging.
Frequently asked questions
Are E-numbers only relevant for the EU?
The E-number system originated in the EU but is referenced or mirrored in several other regulatory systems worldwide. Always check your specific destination market’s current regulation, as adopted limits can differ from the EU original.
Does the E-number tell me the maximum dosage?
Not by itself — the E-number identifies the substance; the permitted level (numeric limit or quantum satis) depends on the specific food category it’s used in under Regulation 1333/2008’s annexes.
Can I get documentation confirming E-number compliance for my formulation?
We can provide COAs and specification documentation confirming our products meet the relevant standard. Confirming your finished formulation’s regulatory compliance in your target market remains the responsibility of your regulatory team, since it depends on your full ingredient list and food category.