Ingredient · E576

Sodium gluconate

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium gluconate functions as a sequestrant, chelating agent, and acidity regulator in food products. …

What is Sodium gluconate?

Sodium gluconate is the sodium salt of gluconic acid. It is produced by the fermentation of glucose, typically derived from corn or other plant sources, using specific microorganisms. The resulting gluconic acid is then neutralised with a sodium source, such as sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.

Is Sodium gluconate vegan?

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

Is Sodium gluconate gluten-free?

It is not a source of gluten.

Is Sodium gluconate a major allergen?

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

What is Sodium gluconate used for?

Sodium gluconate functions as a sequestrant, chelating agent, and acidity regulator in food products.

Is Sodium gluconate safe?

Sodium gluconate is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Sodium gluconate functions as a sequestrant, chelating agent, and acidity regulator in food products. It helps to bind metal ions, preventing them from causing undesirable changes in colour, flavour, or texture. It is commonly found in baked goods, dairy products, beverages, and processed meats.

Health notes

Sodium gluconate is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. EFSA has evaluated its safety and it is permitted for use in specified food categories. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical intake levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. There are no notable controversies surrounding its use.

Regulatory status

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

Permitted uses in the EU

Sodium gluconate · legislation: (EU) No 1129/2011

Food categoryMaximum level
11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder formNo numerical limit listed
11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tabletsNo 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.

Substance is included in Group I, see also authorisation for Group I

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

Allergen info

Sodium gluconate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.

Foods that contain Sodium gluconate

Compare products →
Amazon links are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. About these links

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.