E473 – Sucrose Esters of Fatty Acids
E473 is the EU code for sucrose esters of fatty acids, a group of food additives used as emulsifiers in a wide range of processed food products.
Wissenswertes über "E473"
E473 is the EU code for sucrose esters of fatty acids, a group of food additives used as emulsifiers in a wide range of processed food products.
What is E473?
E473 is the European Union designation for sucrose esters of fatty acids. These are chemically synthesized compounds formed by esterifying sucrose (table sugar) with one or more fatty acids derived from vegetable or animal fats. E473 belongs to the class of emulsifiers, substances that help mix and stabilize water and oil in food products.
Production and Chemical Properties
Sucrose esters are produced through an esterification reaction in which fatty acids are chemically bonded to the hydroxyl groups of the sucrose molecule. Depending on the degree of esterification -- mono-, di-, or triesters -- the physical properties of the resulting compound vary significantly. The final products are typically white to cream-colored powders or waxy solids that are soluble in both water and organic solvents.
Function and Use in Food
E473 is used in a broad range of processed food products. Typical applications include:
- Baked goods and confectionery (e.g., cakes, cookies, creams)
- Dairy and dairy alternative products (e.g., whipped cream, desserts)
- Sweets and chocolate products
- Margarine and fat-based spreads
- Beverages and powdered mixes
- Chewing gum and ice cream
As an emulsifier, E473 improves the texture, stability, and shelf life of food products. It prevents the separation of fat and water phases and contributes to a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
Regulatory Approval
E473 is authorized in the European Union under Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008 on food additives. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has assessed E473 and concluded that it is safe for use at the levels established in food legislation. No specific ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) has been set by EFSA, which indicates that the substance is considered safe under normal conditions of use. E473 is also permitted in many countries outside the EU under the name sucrose esters of fatty acids.
Safety and Tolerability
Based on current scientific evidence, E473 is considered well tolerated. Since sucrose esters are broken down in the digestive tract into sucrose and fatty acids -- both of which are naturally occurring dietary components -- the substance is regarded as physiologically safe. Allergic reactions to E473 are very rare but cannot be entirely excluded in highly sensitive individuals. People with fructose intolerance should be aware that sucrose contains fructose, although the amounts contributed by E473 in food are generally very small.
Potential Side Effects from Excessive Intake
In cases of very high consumption of foods containing E473, mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or diarrhea may occasionally occur. Under normal dietary conditions, however, this is not considered a concern.
Labelling Requirements
Under EU food law, E473 must be declared in the ingredient list of food products either as E473 or by its full name sucrose esters of fatty acids. This allows consumers to identify whether a product contains this additive.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of sucrose esters of fatty acids (E 473) and sucroglycerides (E 474) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 2020.
- European Parliament and Council of the European Union: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. Official Journal of the EU, 2008.
- Belitz, H.-D.; Grosch, W.; Schieberle, P.: Food Chemistry. 4th Edition. Springer, Berlin/Heidelberg, 2009.
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Related search terms: E473 + Sucrose Esters of Fatty Acids + Sugar Esters