Ingredient · E442

Ammonium phosphatides

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
These compounds act as effective emulsifiers, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in …

What is Ammonium phosphatides?

Ammonium phosphatides are a group of emulsifiers derived from phosphoric acid and ammonia, often combined with fatty acids. They are typically produced by reacting vegetable oils or animal fats with phosphoric acid and then neutralising with ammonia.

Is Ammonium phosphatides gluten-free?

Gluten is not a concern.

Is Ammonium phosphatides a major allergen?

Ammonium phosphatides are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Ammonium phosphatides used for?

These compounds act as effective emulsifiers, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in food products.

Is Ammonium phosphatides safe?

Ammonium phosphatides are authorised food additives in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

These compounds act as effective emulsifiers, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in food products. They are commonly found in confectionery, baked goods, and dairy desserts to improve texture and stability.

Health notes

Ammonium phosphatides are authorised food additives in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities have evaluated them, and they are permitted for use within specified food categories. At typical consumption levels, they are not associated with adverse health effects.

Regulatory status

Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products

Permitted uses in the EU

Ammonium phosphatides · legislation: (EU) No 1129/2011

Food categoryMaximum level
5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC10000
5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweets10000
5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.410000

Maximum levels are shown as published (mg/kg or mg/l, depending on the food). Some entries carry extra conditions and group authorisations are not listed here, so check the full entry before relying on a figure.

Sources: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3); European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Ammonium phosphatides are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Gluten is not a concern.

Foods that contain Ammonium phosphatides

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.