E535

E535 is the European food additive code for a phosphate salt used in the food industry. Phosphate salts like E535 function as acidity regulators, buffering agents, and sequestrants to stabilize processed foods. They help control acidity, improve texture, retain moisture, and inhibit undesirable reactions such as discoloration and metal-catalyzed oxidation.

Applications include bread and baked goods to help dough handling, processed meats as binder, dairy products to improve stability, canned vegetables, and beverages where pH control is important.

Regulatory status: E535 is approved for use in the European Union under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, with purity criteria defined in Regulation (EC) No 231/2012. It is listed in the EU list of permitted additives and must be declared in ingredients with the E-number.

Safety: EFSA has evaluated E535 as safe for its permitted uses and typical consumption levels. As with other phosphate additives, high intake may contribute to total phosphate load, which can be a concern for individuals with kidney disease or those on low-phosphate diets. No evidence of genotoxicity or carcinogenicity at approved use levels.

Labeling: Labeling does not distinguish among individual phosphate salts; products may simply state “E535” in the ingredients.

See also: other phosphate-based additives (E450–E452, E500–E516).