What is E 472e?

E 472e is the E number of Mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids. Emulsifier used mainly in bread and rolls to give more volume and a lighter crumb.

What is E 472e used for?

E 472e belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier, flour treatment agent.

  • Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.
  • Flour treatment agent: Flour treatment agents improve the baking quality of flour or dough.

Which foods may contain E 472e?

According to the European Commission's database, E 472e may be used in 69 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 472e vegan?

Vegan depending on origin: may come from plant or animal raw materials. The label usually does not say which.

Is E 472e linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 472e 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 472e" or "Emulsifier: Mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids".

Sources