What is E 442?
E 442 is the E number of Ammonium phosphatides. Emulsifier usually made from rapeseed oil. It is used mainly in chocolate to make it easier to process.
What is E 442 used for?
E 442 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier.
- Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.
Which foods may contain E 442?
According to the European Commission's database, E 442 may be used in 3 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:
- Confectionery
Is E 442 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 442 linked to genetic engineering?
Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).
In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.
How does E 442 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 "Emulsifier: E 442" or "Emulsifier: Ammonium phosphatides".
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)
- Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed, EUR-Lex