What is E 541?
E 541 is the E number of Sodium aluminium phosphate acidic. Aluminium-containing raising agent, permitted only in certain fine bakery wares such as scones and sponge cakes.
What is E 541 used for?
E 541 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as raising agent.
- Raising agent: Raising agents release gas and so increase the volume of a dough.
Which foods may contain E 541?
According to the European Commission's database, E 541 may be used in 1 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:
- Bakery wares
Is E 541 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 541 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 541 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 "Raising agent: E 541" or "Raising agent: Sodium aluminium phosphate acidic".
Sources
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, consolidated version of 18.08.2026, Annexes I and II, EUR-Lex
- Food Additives Database, European Commission (accessed 19 October 2026)