Top 10 E-Numbers to Avoid (and Why)
If you’ve ever turned a food package around and seen a long list of strange codes like E102, E621 or E951, you’ve come across E-numbers. These are additives used to enhance flavor, color, texture or shelf life. While many are safe, some have been linked to allergies, behavioral changes or even potential long-term health issues.
In this guide, we break down the top 10 E-numbers to avoid, explain why they are controversial and show how using FoodieScanner makes checking food labels fast and easy.
1. E102 - Tartrazine
What it is: A synthetic yellow food dye.Where it’s found: Soft drinks, sweets, sauces, flavored chips.
Why avoid it: Associated with hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions, particularly in those with asthma or aspirin sensitivity.
Regulatory note: Products containing E102 in the EU must carry a warning about possible effects on children’s activity and attention.
2. E110 - Sunset Yellow FCF
What it is: Another artificial yellow-orange colorant.Where it’s found: Candy, desserts, ice cream, flavored drinks.
Why avoid it: Linked to hyperactivity and skin reactions. High consumption may also impact liver function in sensitive individuals.
3. E122 - Azorubine (Carmoisine)
What it is: Synthetic red coloring.Where it’s found: Cakes, jams, yogurt, desserts.
Why avoid it: Some studies suggest it may trigger allergic reactions or worsen asthma symptoms. Children may be more vulnerable to its effects.
4. E211 - Sodium Benzoate
What it is: A preservative used to inhibit bacteria and mold growth.Where it’s found: Soft drinks, pickles, sauces, salad dressings.
Why avoid it: When combined with vitamin C, it may form benzene, a compound linked to cancer. Also associated with hyperactivity in children.
5. E250 - Sodium Nitrite
What it is: A preservative that also gives processed meats their pink color.Where it’s found: Bacon, sausages, ham, hot dogs.
Why avoid it: Can form nitrosamines during cooking, compounds associated with an increased risk of cancer.
6. E320 - Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
What it is: A synthetic antioxidant that prevents food from spoiling.Where it’s found: Chips, processed meats, breakfast cereals.
Why avoid it: Classified as a possible human carcinogen. Long-term exposure could impact hormone balance.
7. E321 - Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
What it is: Similar to BHA, used to extend shelf life of products containing fats.Where it’s found: Chewing gum, baked goods, snack foods, cereals.
Why avoid it: May interfere with hormone function and has raised concerns about potential links to cancer.
8. E621 - Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
What it is: A flavor enhancer used to intensify savory taste.Where it’s found: Instant noodles, crisps, frozen meals, restaurant foods.
Why avoid it: Some individuals report symptoms such as headaches, flushing or nausea - commonly referred to as “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”
9. E951 - Aspartame
What it is: An artificial sweetener, 200 times sweeter than sugar.Where it’s found: Diet sodas, sugar-free gums, protein powders.
Why avoid it: Controversial due to studies suggesting potential neurological and metabolic effects in sensitive individuals.
10. E954 - Saccharin
What it is: Another artificial sweetener.Where it’s found: Sugar-free drinks, tabletop sweeteners, diet foods.
Why avoid it: Though considered safe in small doses, older studies linked high consumption to cancer in lab animals. Debate about long-term use continues.
Why Checking Labels Matters
E-numbers often hide in ingredient lists under complex chemical names. Unless you’re a chemist, spotting the risky ones can be tricky.FoodieScanner simplifies this by letting you scan the ingredient list with your phone. In seconds, it identifies questionable additives and explains what they do - no memorizing required.
Read the Complete Guide to E-Numbers: How to Scan Ingredient Lists for Food Additives
FAQs
Are all E-numbers bad?
No. Many E-numbers are natural or harmless, such as Vitamin C (E300). The ones listed here are controversial because of potential health effects.Are these additives banned everywhere?
No. Some are restricted in certain countries, while others remain widely used. Regulations vary between the EU, US and other regions.Can FoodieScanner help me avoid them?
Yes. Instead of decoding labels yourself, FoodieScanner highlights risky E-numbers instantly and provides a clear safety guide.Final Thoughts:
Avoiding harmful additives doesn’t mean giving up on convenience foods altogether - it means shopping smarter. With FoodieScanner, you don’t need to memorize long chemical names. Just scan, check and choose healthier options.