E 631 Disodium inosinate

What is E 631?

E 631 is the E number of Disodium inosinate. Sodium salt of inosinic acid. It enhances savoury taste, for example in crisps, instant noodles and seasonings.

What is E 631 used for?

E 631 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as flavour enhancer.

• Flavour enhancer: Flavour enhancers enhance the existing taste or odour of a food.

Which foods may contain E 631?

According to the European Commission's database, E 631 may be used in 68 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 631 vegan?

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

Is E 631 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be produced with microorganisms that can be genetically modified. If a substance is only produced with the help of genetically modified microorganisms, EU law does not require it to be labelled.

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

How does E 631 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 "Flavour enhancer: E 631" or "Flavour enhancer: Disodium inosinate".