Candies are a delightful part of many diets, but they often contain a variety of food additives to achieve their vibrant colors, appealing textures, and long shelf lives. While many of these are considered safe, some have raised concerns among health professionals and consumers.
This page explores common E-codes found in candies, detailing their purpose, potential health risks, and any relevant ban information. Understanding these can help you make more informed choices about your sweet treats.
E102 Tartrazine
Purpose: Yellow food coloring.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Linked to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions. Requires warning labels in the EU; banned in Norway and Austria.
E110 Sunset Yellow FCF
Purpose: Orange-yellow food coloring.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Associated with hyperactivity in children. Requires warning labels in the EU; banned in Norway and Finland.
E124 Ponceau 4R
Purpose: Red food coloring.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Linked to hyperactivity in children. Requires warning labels in the EU; banned in the US, Norway, and Finland.
E129 Allura Red AC
Purpose: Red food coloring.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Linked to hyperactivity in children. Requires warning labels in the EU; banned in Denmark, Belgium, France, and Switzerland.
E133 Brilliant Blue FCF
Purpose: Blue food coloring.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Linked to hyperactivity in children. Requires warning labels in the EU; banned in France, Belgium, Norway, and Switzerland.
E171 Titanium Dioxide
Purpose: Whitening agent, provides opacity.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Classified as a possible human carcinogen when inhaled; concerns about genotoxicity. Banned as a food additive in the EU since 2022.
E951 Aspartame
Purpose: Artificial sweetener.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Controversial; linked to headaches, dizziness, and other neurological symptoms in sensitive individuals. Approved in most countries, but ongoing debates about long-term effects.
E950 Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)
Purpose: Artificial sweetener.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Concerns about potential carcinogenic effects, though regulatory bodies deem it safe at approved levels. Widely used globally.
E967 Xylitol
Purpose: Sugar alcohol, natural sweetener.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Generally safe for humans, but can cause digestive upset (bloating, diarrhea) in large quantities. Highly toxic to dogs.
E414 Acacia Gum (Gum Arabic)
Purpose: Thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer.
Health Risks/Ban Info: Generally considered safe. High doses may cause mild digestive issues. Widely used in confectionery.
While candies are meant to be enjoyed in moderation, being aware of the additives they contain can help you make more conscious choices. Prioritize candies with natural colorings and sweeteners when possible, and always check the ingredient list.