Are Mono- and Diglycerides Allowed in Europe? A Guide to EU Regulations (E471)

Yes, mono- and diglycerides (E471) are legally allowed in Europe, but a significant update in July 2023 introduced much stricter regulations for their use. These regulations, enforced by the European Commission based on scientific advice from EFSA, focus on minimizing contaminants and ensuring consumer safety. This means that while the additive is permitted, its manufacturing and purity are under tight control.

Quick Summary

Mono- and diglycerides (E471) are approved in the EU, though subject to strict purity and manufacturing regulations updated in 2023 following EFSA safety reviews. Their vegan status depends on sourcing, which is not always disclosed.

Key Points

• EU-Approved: Mono- and diglycerides (E471) are a legally approved food additive in Europe.

• Strict 2023 Regulations: New, stricter rules were implemented in July 2023 (Regulation EU 2023/1428) based on EFSA safety evaluations.

• Reduced Contaminant Levels: The updated regulations mandate lower maximum limits for contaminants like glycidyl esters, 3-MCPD, and heavy metals.

• Vegan Status Varies: The source of E471 can be either plant or animal and is not always specified on labels.

• Requires Consumer Research: Consumers following a vegan or vegetarian diet must check product labels or contact manufacturers.

• Safety Re-evaluation: EFSA periodically re-evaluates approved food additives.

European Regulation of Mono- and Diglycerides (E471)

Mono- and diglycerides, known as E471, are food additives widely used in the EU. They act as emulsifiers, helping combine oil and water to create stable textures in various foods like baked goods, margarine, ice cream, and confectionery. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluates the safety of all food additives in Europe. E471, like others, must pass EFSA's safety assessment before approval and is continuously monitored.

The 2023 Updates to E471 Specifications

Following an EFSA re-evaluation, the EU significantly amended the regulations for E471 in 2023 via Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/1428. These updates aimed to tighten purity criteria due to concerns about potential genotoxic and carcinogenic contaminants formed during production. {Link: EUR-Lex https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32023R1428} provides detailed information on these changes, including stricter limits for contaminants, reduced limits for heavy metals, and the establishment of a maximum permitted content of erucic acid. Transitional periods were included, with new limits fully effective by early 2024.

Vegan and Vegetarian Considerations in the EU

The EU E-number for mono- and diglycerides does not indicate whether they are derived from animal fats or plant-based oils. Therefore, E471 itself is not confirmed as vegan or vegetarian. Consumers in Europe seeking vegan or vegetarian products containing E471 should look for explicit labeling, contact the product manufacturer, or refer to specialized lists.

E471: Comparison of Pre- and Post-2023 Regulations

Feature	Pre-July 2023 Regulations	Post-July 2023 Regulations (EU 2023/1428)
Glycidyl Esters (expressed as glycidol)	No maximum limit specified.	Maximum Limit: 5 mg/kg for all uses, with stricter rules (5 mg/kg from July 2023) for infant and young children's food.
3-MCPD Esters	Limited attention in specifications.	Maximum Limit: 2.5 mg/kg (general use), 0.75 mg/kg (infants/young children).
Heavy Metals (e.g., Lead, Arsenic)	Previous limits existed, considered less strict.	Reduced Limits: Stricter maximum limits for toxic elements were introduced.
Erucic Acid	No specific limit mentioned in previous specifications.	Maximum Limit: A maximum content was established.
Usage Scope	Permitted in a wide variety of foods at quantum satis (as much as is needed), with some restrictions.	Remains broadly similar, but with all products required to meet the new purity standards.

Conclusion

Mono- and diglycerides (E471) are permitted in Europe under strict EU regulations updated in 2023 based on EFSA's safety findings. These updates significantly lowered acceptable contaminant levels. While safe under these rules, the source (animal or plant) of E471 is not always clear, requiring consumers to investigate for vegan/vegetarian suitability. The revised regulations highlight the EU's commitment to food safety standards. For detailed regulatory information, refer to {Link: EUR-Lex https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32023R1428}.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E471?

E471 is the European E-number code for mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, used as emulsifiers in food products.

Are mono- and diglycerides safe to eat in Europe?

Yes, E471 is considered safe for consumption in Europe after evaluation by EFSA and is subject to continuous monitoring and strict purity standards, updated in 2023.

Are mono- and diglycerides vegan?

Not inherently. The source can be plant or animal. Consumers should look for vegan certification or contact the manufacturer.

Why did the EU introduce new regulations for E471 in 2023?

The stricter regulations address EFSA's concerns about potential genotoxic and carcinogenic contaminants like glycidyl esters formed during manufacturing.

What foods commonly contain mono- and diglycerides?

E471 is found in processed foods like baked goods, margarine, ice cream, processed meats, and confectionery, where it helps with texture and stability.

Is the use of E471 restricted in any specific foods in the EU?

Stricter contaminant limits apply to foods for infants and young children. Otherwise, it's generally authorized for broad use at quantum satis.

What does a consumer need to know about the new E471 rules?

The new rules mean the EU is ensuring the safety and purity of E471 by mandating lower contaminant levels, resulting in stricter quality control for products from 2024 onwards.