Ingredient · E267

Buffered vinegar

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use buffered vinegar primarily as a flavouring agent and preservative. Its reduced acidity …

What is Buffered vinegar?

Buffered vinegar is a form of vinegar that has been treated to reduce its acidity. This is typically achieved by adding a buffering agent, such as sodium acetate or sodium bicarbonate, to neutralise some of the acetic acid. The resulting product has a milder, less sharp flavour than standard vinegar.

Is Buffered vinegar vegan?

Buffered vinegar is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Buffered vinegar gluten-free?

Gluten is not a component.

Is Buffered vinegar a major allergen?

Buffered vinegar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Buffered vinegar used for?

Manufacturers use buffered vinegar primarily as a flavouring agent and preservative.

Is Buffered vinegar safe?

Buffered vinegar, or its components, are authorised food additives in the UK.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use buffered vinegar primarily as a flavouring agent and preservative. Its reduced acidity makes it suitable for products where a strong vinegary taste is undesirable, such as in processed meats and baked goods. It can help to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.

Health notes

Buffered vinegar, or its components, are authorised food additives in the UK. Acetic acid (vinegar) and sodium acetate are permitted for use. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these substances. As with many food additives, extensive research has been conducted, and they are considered safe for consumption within permitted levels. There are no widespread controversies regarding its use at typical dietary levels.

Regulatory status

Permitted uses in the EU

Buffered vinegar · legislation: Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2086 of 28 September 2023 amending Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the Europ

Food categoryMaximum level
1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16No numerical limit listed
1.7.4 whey cheeseNo numerical limit listed
4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetablesNo numerical limit listed
6.4.1 Fresh pastaNo numerical limit listed
6.4.3 Fresh pre-cooked pastaNo numerical limit listed
6.4.4 Potato GnocchiNo numerical limit listed
7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, saltNo numerical limit listed
7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerekNo numerical limit listed
8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004No numerical limit listed
8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsNo numerical limit listed

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.

Source: European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Buffered vinegar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Gluten is not a component.

Foods that contain Buffered vinegar

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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.