Turn over almost any packaged food product and you will find a list of mysterious codes among the ingredients: E621, E951, E330, E150a. These are E-numbers — standardised codes for food additives used across Europe. Most people have no idea what they mean, whether they are safe, or whether they should be concerned. LBN's built-in E-number checker decodes every single one so you can make genuinely informed decisions about the food you eat.
E-numbers are classification codes for food additives that have been assessed and approved for use within the European Union. The “E” stands for Europe. Each number corresponds to a specific chemical substance used as a preservative, colouring, sweetener, emulsifier, flavour enhancer, or stabiliser. The system was introduced to provide a standardised, language-independent way to identify additives across all EU member states.
Not all E-numbers are harmful. E300 is simply ascorbic acid (vitamin C). E160a is beta-carotene (a natural pigment found in carrots). E330 is citric acid (found naturally in lemons). But some additives are more controversial, and the E-number system can make it difficult for consumers to distinguish the benign from the concerning. That is where LBN helps.
How the E-number checker works in LBN
When you scan any product with LBN's barcode scanner, the app automatically parses the ingredient list, identifies every E-number present, and displays a clear, colour-coded analysis. You do not need to do anything extra — it is built directly into the product view.
For each additive found, LBN shows:
- The E-number code and its common name (e.g., E621 = Monosodium Glutamate)
- What category it belongs to (colouring, preservative, sweetener, etc.)
- What it is used for in the product
- A risk rating based on current scientific evidence
- Any known sensitivities or dietary concerns (e.g., not suitable for vegans, may cause reactions in sensitive individuals)
Understanding risk levels
Low concern
Additives that are naturally occurring, well-studied, and widely considered safe. Examples: E300 (vitamin C), E330 (citric acid), E160a (beta-carotene), E412 (guar gum). Most E-numbers fall into this category.
Moderate concern
Additives that are generally recognised as safe but have some debate or may cause issues in sensitive individuals. Examples: E621 (MSG), E450 (diphosphates), E471 (mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids).
Higher concern
Additives that have been linked to potential health effects in some studies or are restricted in certain countries. Examples: E951 (aspartame — contested), E110 (Sunset Yellow — linked to hyperactivity in children), E211 (sodium benzoate).
Restricted / Banned
Additives that have been banned or restricted in certain jurisdictions. LBN flags these prominently so you are aware, even if they are still permitted in your country.
You do not need to memorise hundreds of codes, but knowing a handful helps:
E621 (MSG) — a flavour enhancer found in crisps, instant noodles, and ready meals. Safe for most people, but some report headaches or flushing.
E951 (Aspartame) — an artificial sweetener in diet drinks and sugar-free products. Extensively studied; approved by EFSA, but remains controversial with some consumers.
E150a (Caramel colour) — the most common food colouring in the world. Found in cola, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Generally safe.
E250 (Sodium nitrite) — a preservative in processed meats (bacon, ham, sausages). Linked to potential health concerns when consumed in large quantities over time.
E-number categories at a glance
- E100–E199: Colours — substances that add or restore colour to food.
- E200–E299: Preservatives — substances that extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.
- E300–E399: Antioxidants — substances that prevent oxidation and rancidity.
- E400–E499: Thickeners, emulsifiers, and stabilisers — substances that improve texture.
- E500–E599: Acidity regulators — substances that control pH levels.
- E600–E699: Flavour enhancers — substances that intensify taste.
- E900–E999: Sweeteners and miscellaneous — including waxes and gases.
Why this matters for your health
Food transparency is about more than calories and macros. The rise of ultra-processed food (UPF) — products that contain ingredients you would never find in a home kitchen — has been linked by researchers to increased risks of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. The NOVA food classification system, used by nutrition scientists worldwide, defines UPF partly by the presence of additives like emulsifiers, flavour enhancers, and artificial colours.
LBN's E-number checker does not make decisions for you. It gives you the information to make your own. Some E-numbers are completely harmless. Others deserve a second look. The point is that you should not have to Google every code on every label — LBN does it for you, automatically, every time you scan.
A feature no other tracker offers Free
MyFitnessPal, Lose It!, Cronometer, YAZIO, Noom, and FatSecret do not include E-number analysis. If you want this information, you would need a separate app like Yuka or Open Food Facts. LBN integrates it directly into the barcode scanning experience, so you get calorie data, macro data, Nutri-Score, and additive analysis in a single scan.
Related features
- Barcode scanner — E-number analysis is triggered automatically on every scan.
- Nutri-Score — see an A–E health rating alongside the additive analysis.
- Calorie tracker — track the nutritional value of what you eat.
- Community database — help add products that are missing.
Stop guessing what those codes on the back of the packet mean. Download LBN free on Android and decode your food labels instantly — every scan, every product, every additive explained.
