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sodium dehydroacetate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namesodium dehydroacetate
English namesodium dehydroacetate
INS/E numberINS 266
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1986
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, water-soluble and used as a broad-spectrum preservative against moulds, yeasts and bacteria.

Source ​

Industrial:脱氢乙酸与氢氧化钠中和反应制得脱氢乙酸钠

Why is it used? ​

  • Broad-spectrum inhibition of moulds, yeasts and bacteria
  • High water solubility, easy dispersion
  • Extends shelf life of bakery, beverages, etc.
  • Heat-stable

Common Foods ​

  • Bakery products such as cakes and bread
  • Beverages
  • Pickles and preserved foods
  • Cream and dairy products
  • Some condiments

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake):0-0.3 mg/kg bw (以脱氢乙酸计)

Concerns:

  • 高剂量有毒性(肝肾影响)
  • 中国已限制使用范围与限量
  • 不可超范围超量使用

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》(限特定食品,已收紧)

International:

  • EU:未批准作为直接食品添加剂
  • FDA:未批准为常规食品防腐剂
  • Codex GSFA (INS 266)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Sodium dehydroacetate)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.3 mg/kg bw)

In a nutshell ​

Sodium dehydroacetate is the water-soluble sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, broad-spectrum yet requiring strict limits.

Consumer Advice ​

Sodium dehydroacetate is the water-soluble sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, used as a preservative in bread, cakes, dried bean curd sticks and pickles. Under China's revised standard (GB 2760-2024) its permitted uses have been greatly narrowed and it is no longer allowed in baked goods. When buying pastries, mooncakes or similar baked items, try to choose products that do not list sodium dehydroacetate on the label.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.