E 444 Sucrose acetate isobutyrate

What is E 444?

E 444 is the E number of Sucrose acetate isobutyrate. Stabiliser made from sugar that keeps flavour oils evenly dispersed in cloudy soft drinks.

What is E 444 used for?

E 444 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier, stabiliser.

• Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.
• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.

Which foods may contain E 444?

According to the European Commission's database, E 444 may be used in 2 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Beverages

Is E 444 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 444 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 444 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 "Emulsifier: E 444" or "Emulsifier: Sucrose acetate isobutyrate".