E Number
E numbers are codes for chemicals which can be used as food additives for use within the European Union (the "E" prefix stands for "Europe") and Switzerland. They are commonly found on food labels throughout the European Union. Safety assessment and approval are the responsibility of the European Food Safety Authority.
Having a single unified list for food additives was first agreed upon in 1962 with colours. In 1964 the directives for preservatives was added, 1970 for antioxidants and 1974 for the emulsifiers, stabilisers, thickeners and gelling agents.
Read more about E Number: Numbering Scheme, Colloquial Use, Classification By Numeric Range, Full List
Famous quotes containing the word number:
“But however the forms of family life have changed and the number expanded, the role of the family has remained constant and it continues to be the major institution through which children pass en route to adulthood.”
—Bernice Weissbourd (20th century)