E234

This section is about
E-numbers (Preservatives).

To read about other E-numbers use the links on the left.

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E234 is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU) and used as an antifungal preservative in food products.

The common name for E234 is nisin.

E234 is a polypeptide antibiotic, made of chains of 34 amino acids. This chemical is a primary metabolite as it is produced by fermentation, during the growth of the bacterium Lactococcus lactis. E234 can be obtained naturally (e.g. from milk), and is also chemically synthesised.

E234 is broken down in the small intestine to be used as a protein in the body. The recommended daily intake for nisin is approximately up to 80mg per kg of diet.

Examples of food and drink products that sometimes include E234:

• beers
• tomato paste
• canned fruits
• processed cheese products

Note⁽¹⁾ The list of Food Additives (E Numbers) included in this section is subject to change as chemicals are added or removed by regulatory authorities. IvyRose cannot guarantee that this list is complete or that all details are up to date.

Note⁽²⁾ These numbers are also used in Australia and New Zealand but without the E.

Government approvals and other regulatory details are subject to change.

Regulatory approvals and advice can change over time.

This was added in 2007-08. For current details please check with the relevant authorities.