E 472a Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids

What is E 472a?

E 472a is the E number of Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids. Emulsifier based on E 471 and acetic acid. It is used in baked goods and coatings.

What is E 472a used for?

E 472a belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier, stabiliser, glazing agent.

• Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.
• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.
• Glazing agent: Glazing agents give the surface a shiny appearance or a protective coating.

Which foods may contain E 472a?

According to the European Commission's database, E 472a may be used in 70 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 472a vegan?

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

Is E 472a 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 472a 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 472a" or "Emulsifier: Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids".