E 473 Sucrose esters of fatty acids

What is E 473?

E 473 is the E number of Sucrose esters of fatty acids. Emulsifier made from sugar and fatty acids. It is used in baked goods, desserts and coffee whiteners.

What is E 473 used for?

E 473 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 473?

According to the European Commission's database, E 473 may be used in 34 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
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 473 vegan?

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

Is E 473 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 473 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 473" or "Emulsifier: Sucrose esters of fatty acids".