• Independent
  • With sources
  • No advertising
  • Tools run in your browser
Gruene Biotechnologie Independent explanations: genetic engineering, plants and food Check a label

What is E 341?

E 341 is the E number of Calcium phosphates. Calcium salts of phosphoric acid. They serve as raising agents, anti-caking agents or to add calcium.

What is E 341 used for?

E 341 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as acidity regulator, raising agent, anti-caking agent, firming agent.

  • Acidity regulator: Acidity regulators alter or control the acidity (pH) of a food.
  • Raising agent: Raising agents release gas and so increase the volume of a dough.
  • Anti-caking agent: Anti-caking agents stop particles of a food from sticking together or forming lumps.
  • Firming agent: Firming agents keep fruit or vegetables firm and crisp.

Which foods may contain E 341?

According to the European Commission's database, E 341 may be used in 61 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

  • Dairy products and analogues
  • Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
  • Edible ices
  • Fruit and vegetables
  • Confectionery
  • Cereals and cereal products
  • Bakery wares
  • Meat
  • Fish and fisheries products
  • Eggs and egg products
  • Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
  • Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
  • Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
  • Beverages
  • Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
  • Desserts
  • Food supplements
  • Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 341 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 341 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 341 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Acidity regulator: E 341" or "Acidity regulator: Calcium phosphates".

Sources