Hydrochloric acid

E number E507INS 507CAS 7647-01-0

Listed as an acidity regulator by Canada, Codex and the US.

Listed as acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · formulation aids (US) · starch-modifying agents (CA)
Chemical structure of Hydrochloric acid, from PubChem compound 313
Structure from PubChem CID 313 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Hydrochloric acid is used as a processing aid and acidity regulator, chiefly to hydrolyse proteins and starches and to adjust pH during manufacture. It is generally neutralised before the food is finished.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Hydrochloric acid by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

54 food categories

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMP
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPOnly UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMP
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMP
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMP
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPOnly UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMP
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMP
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMP
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMP
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMP
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMP
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMP
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMP
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMP
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMP
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMP
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMP
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMP
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMP
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPFor juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMP
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMP
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMP
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMP
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMP
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMP
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMP
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMP
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMP
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMP
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMP
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMP
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMP
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMP
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMP
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMP
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMP
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMP
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMP
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMP
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMP
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMP
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMP
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMP
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMP
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMP
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMP
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMP
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 53 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

5 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Beer. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item H.1(a)
  • In: Gelatin. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item H.1(b)
  • In: Infant formula. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item H.1(c)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0163. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item H.1(d)
  • In: Starch used in the manufacture of modified starch. Purpose: Starch-modifying agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Starch-Modifying Agents (List 13), item H.1
Health Canadaand 4 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

71 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* — quantum satisquantum satis. only for pH adjustment.
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — quantum satisquantum satis. only processed cereal based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants — quantum satisquantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made winePermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roePermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

69 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children as defined by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC — quantum satisquantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.1.4 Other foods for young children — quantum satisquantum satis. only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.1.5.1 Dietary foods for infants for special medical purposes and special formulae for infants — quantum satisquantum satis. only as rising agent.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 68 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 90, 塩酸 (“Hydrochloric Acid” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 90, 塩酸 (“Hydrochloric Acid” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use), entry 塩酸: (1) [must be removed or broken down before the food is finished] “塩酸は、最終食品の完成前に中和し、又は除去しなければならない。” The Japanese is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the Notification; the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 2. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 2. 가공보조제 (processing aids), 염산 (“Hydrochloric Acid”, the English the Code prints beside it). Main use (주용도) of 염산: 제조용제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 염산: (1) [must be neutralised or removed before the final food is complete] “염산은 최종식품 완성 전에 중화 또는 제거하여야 한다.” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted21 CFR 182.1057retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

1 food category

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

Note XS73 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Baby Foods (CODEX STAN 73-1981).

CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 507and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand—54 GMP
Canada—5 GMP
European Union—46 several limits, 3 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain—69 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius—2 GMP

No regulator sets a figure for Hydrochloric acid. That is not an absence of control: where the listing says quantum satis or good manufacturing practice, the quantity is limited to what the effect requires.

What it is made from

Produced industrially by combining hydrogen and chlorine, or as a by-product of organic chlorination. It is the same acid the stomach produces.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
7647-01-0
InChIKey
VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-N
PubChem
CID 313

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 35 %no less than 97 %
Leadno more than 1 mg/kgno more than 1 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 1 mg/kg—
Mercuryno more than 1 mg/kg—

One parameter differs between the two documents. A difference is not a disagreement about safety: the two are revised on their own cycles, and an assay or a drying loss can be measured against a different preparation of the substance, which is why only the contaminant ceilings are marked. Within the EU the EU's figure is the one that binds.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 507 Hydrochloric acid

Synonyms: Hydrogen chloride; Muriatic acid

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
231-595-7
Chemical name
Hydrochloric acid
Chemical formula
HCl
Molecular weight
36,46
Assay
Hydrochloric acid is commercially available in varying concentrations. Concentrated hydrochloric acid contains not less than 35,0 % HCl
Description
Clear, colourless or slightly yellowish, corrosive liquid having a pungent odour

Identification

Test for acid
Passes test
Test for chloride
Passes test
Solubility
Soluble in water and in ethanol

Purity criteria

Total organic compounds
Total organic compounds (non-fluorine containing): not more than 5 mg/kg Benzene: not more than 0,05 mg/kg Fluorinated compounds (total): not more than 25 mg/kg
Non-volatile matter
Not more than 0,5 %
Reducing substances
Not more than 70 mg/kg (as SO₂)
Oxidising substances
Not more than 30 mg/kg (as Cl₂)
Sulphate
Not more than 0,5 %
Iron
Not more than 5 mg/kg
Arsenic
Not more than 1 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 1 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 507

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 507 Hydrochloric Acid

Synonyms: Muriatic acid, INS No. 507 Muriatic acid

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 46th JECFA (1996), published in FNP 52 Add 4 (1996) superseding specifications prepared at the 20th JECFA (1976), published in FNS 1B (1977) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 59th JECFA (2002). An ADI not limited' was established at the 9th JECFA (1965)
Chemical names
Hydrochloric acid
C.A.S. number
7647-01-0
Chemical formula
HCl
Formula weight
36.46
Assay
Not less than 97.0% and not more than 103.0% of the labelled amount
DESCRIPTION
Clear colourless or slightly yellowish liquid with a pungent odour. Various concentrations are supplied as products of commerce.
FUNCTIONAL USES
Acid
METHOD OF ASSAY
Tare accurately a 125-ml glass-stoppered conical flask containing 50 ml of 1N sodium hydroxide. Partially fill, without the use of vacuum, a 10-ml serological pipet from near the bottom of a representative sample, remove any acid adhering to the outside and discard the first ml flowing from the pipet. Hold the tip of the pipet just above the surface of the sodium hydroxide solution, and transfer between 2.5 and 3 ml of the sample into the flask, mix the contents, and weigh accurately to obtain the weight of the sample. Add methyl orange TS and titrate the excess of sodium hydroxide with 1N hydrochloric acid. Each ml of 1N sodium hydroxide is equivalent to 36.46 mg of HCl.

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Soluble in water and in ethanol
Test for acid
A 1 in 100 solution of the sample is acid to litmus paper
Test for chloride (Vol. 4)
Passes test

Purity criteria

Non-volatile residue
Not more than 0.5% Transfer 1 g into a tared glass dish, evaporate to dryness on a steam bath, dry at 110º for 1 h, cool in a desiccator and weigh. The weight of the residue does not exceed 5 mg.
Reducing substances
Not more than 70 mg/kg as sulfur dioxide ; Transfer 1 ml of reagent grade hydrochloric acid into a 30-ml test tube, dilute to 20 ml with freshly boiled and cooled water, and add 1 ml of potassium iodide TS, 1 ml of starch TS and 2 ml of 0.001N iodine. Stopper the test tube and mix thoroughly. The blue colour produced is not discharged by 1 ml of the sample.
Oxidizing substances
Not more than 30 mg/kg as chlorine Transfer 1 ml of the sample into a 30-ml test tube, dilute to 20 ml with freshly boiled and cooled water, and add 1 ml of potassium iodide TS and 1 ml of starch TS. Stopper the test tube and mix thoroughly. The intensity of any blue colour developed does not exceed that produced in a control prepared similarly but containing 1 ml of 0.001N iodine (instead of potassium iodide TS) and 1 ml of reagent grade concentrated hydrochloric acid (instead of sample).
Sulfate
Not more than 0.5% Dilute 1 g of the sample to 100 ml with water, transfer 5 ml of this dilution to a 50-ml tall-form Nessler tube and dilute to 20 ml with water. Add a drop of phenolphthalein TS, neutralize the solution with ammonia TS, and then add 1 ml of hydrochloric acid TS prepared from reagent grade hydrochloric acid. To the clear solution (filtered if necessary) add 3 ml of barium chloride TS, dilute to 50 ml with water and mix. Prepare a control consisting of 1 ml of reagent grade concentrated hydrochloric acid and 250 μg of sulfate (SO 4 ) and the same quantities of the reagents as used for the sample. Any turbidity shown in the sample does not exceed that in the control.
Total organic compounds
Total organic compounds (non-fluorine): Not more than 5 mg/kg Benzene: Not more than 0.05 mg/kg Fluorinated organic compounds (total): Not more than 25 mg/kg See description under TESTS
Iron
Not more than 5 mg/kg Dilute 5 g (4.3 ml) of the sample to 40 ml and add about 40 mg of ammonium persulfate and 10 ml of ammonium thiocyanate TS. Any red colour developed does not exceed that in a control prepared by mixing 2.5 ml of Iron standard solution in an equal volume of a solution containing the same quantities of reagent grade hydrochloric acid and the reagents as used in the test.
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 1 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”
Test: Organic compounds
Carry out analyses by gas chromatography employing Vapour Partitioning or Solvent Extraction, depending upon the characteristics of the compound being determined. It is necessary, however, to use the Vapour Partitioning method for the determination of benzene. Vapour Partitioning Method This method is suitable for the determination of extractable organic compounds at 0.05 to 100 mg/kg but is most appropriate for organic compounds with a vapour pressure greater than 10 mm Hg at 25 o . Use a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector and a 4-m x 2-mm (id) stainless-steel column packed with 15%, by weight, methyl trifluoropropyl silicone (DCFS 1265, or QF-1, or OV-210, or SP-2401) stationary phase on 80/100 mesh Gas Chrom R or the equivalent. A newly packed column should be conditioned at 120º and 30 ml/min helium flow for at least 2 h (preferably overnight) before it is attached to the detector. For analysis, the column is maintained isothermally at 105 o , the injection port and detector are maintained at 250 o , the carrier gas flow rate is set at 11 ml/min, fuel gas flows should be optimized for the gas chromatograph and detector in use. The experimental conditions may be changed as necessary for optimal resolution and sensitivity. The signal-to-noise ratio should be at least 10:1. Preparation of Standard Solutions Prepare a standard solution of the organic compounds to be quantitated in Hydrochloric Acid (known to be free of interfering impurities) at approximate concentrations of 5 mg/kg, or within ±50% of the concentrations in the samples to be analyzed. Place a stirring bar in a one-litre volumetric flask equipped with a ground-glass stopper, and tare the combination. Fill the flask with reagent-grade hydrochloric acid so that no air space is present when the flask is stoppered, and determine the weight of the Hydrochloric Acid. Calculate the volume (V) in 1l of each organic component to be added from the formula V = (C x W)/(D x 1000) where C is the desired concentration, in mg/kg; W is weight, in g, of the Hydrochloric Acid; D is the density, in mg/1l, of the organic compound; and 1000 is a conversion factor with the units g/kg. Add the calculated amount of each component to the Hydrochloric Acid with a syringe (ensure that the syringe tip is under the solution surface), stopper the flask, and stir the solution for at least 2 h using a magnetic stirrer. Calibration Treat the standard in the same way as described for the sample under Procedure (below). Determine a blank for each lot of reagent-grade Hydrochloric Acid, and calculate a response factor (R) by dividing the concentration (C) in mg/kg for each component by the peak area (A) for that component (subtract any area obtained from the blank sample): R - C/(A - area of blank) Gaseous compounds present special problems in the preparation of standards. Therefore, to determine response factors for gaseous compounds use the following method, which will be referred to as the Method of Multiple Extractions. Dilute a sample of Hydrochloric Acid known to contain the gaseous compound of interest with an equal volume of water. Draw 20 ml of this solution into a 50-ml glass syringe; then draw 20 ml of air into the syringe, cap with a rubber septum, and place the syringe on a shaker for 5 min. Withdraw 1 ml of the vapour through the septum, and inject it into the chromatograph. Expel the vapour phase from the 50-ml syringe, draw in another 20 ml of air, repeat the extraction, and inject another 1-ml vapour sample into the gas chromatograph. Repeat the extraction, and GC analysis on the same sample of acid a total of six times. For each impurity, plot the area (A N ) determined for extraction N against the difference between A N and the area determined for extraction (N + 1); that is, plot A N against [A N - A N+1 ]. The slope of this line is the extraction efficiency (E) for that impurity into the air. Inject into the chromatograph 1 ml of 0.1% (by volume) standard gas sample of each impurity in air and determine the absolute factor (F A ) in g, per peak area (A) by the following formula: F = (M x 4.0816 x 10 -8 )/A, A where M is the molecular weight of the compound. The concentration (C), in mg/kg, of the component in the original sample is calculated by the formula C = (A x F x 1.6949 x 10 6 )/E. A where A is the peak area corresponding to the compound (as above), F A is the absolute factor, and E is extraction efficiency. The response factor is then calculated as R = C/A Procedure Dilute a 10-ml sample of Hydrochloric Acid to be analyzed with an equal volume of water. Draw this solution into a 50-ml glass syringe. Then draw 20 ml of air into the syringe, cap with a rubber septum, and place the syringe on a shaker for 5 min. Draw 1 ml of the vapour through the septum, and inject it into the gas chromatograph. Approximate elution times in min for some specific organic compounds are as follows: Methane and acetylene: 1.70 Methyl chloride: 2.21 Vinyl chloride: 2.29 1,1,1-Trichlorofluoromethane: 2.62 Ethyl chloride: 2.90 Vinylidene chloride: 3.20 Methylene chloride: 3.64 Chloroform: 4.49 1,1-Dichloroethane: 4.53 Carbon tetrachloride: 4.86 1,1,1-Trichloroethane: 5.50 Benzene: 6.00 Trichloroethylene: 6.22 Ethylene dichloride: 6.61 Propylenedichloride: 8.41 Perchloroethylene: 9.73 Alternate columns may be required to resolve some combinations of components. Methyl chloride and vinyl chloride are resolved by a 3.7-m x 3-mm (id) squalene column at 45 o and a helium flow of 10 ml/min. Chloroform and 1,1-dichloroethane are resolved by a 4-m x 3-mm (id) DC 550R column at 110 o and a helium flow of 12 ml/min. Calculation Calculate the concentration (C) in mg/kg of each compound by multiplying its corresponding peak area (A) by the appropriate response factor (R) determined in the Calibration protocol: C = R x A Precision The relative standard deviation at 5 mg/kg should not exceed 15% for five analyses. Solvent Extraction Method The solvent extraction technique is suitable for the determination of extractable organic compounds at 0.3 to 100 mg/kg, but is most appropriate for organic compounds with vapour pressures less than 10 mm Hg at 25º. The conditions for the gas chromatograph are the same as for the Vapour Partitioning method, except that the column temperature is 120º, and the carrier-gas flow is 21 ml/min. Preparation of Standards Prepare the Standard Solution as described under Vapour Partitioning. Calibration Extract a sample of the Standard Solution as directed under Procedure (below) and inject it into the gas chromatograph. Determine a blank for each lot of reagent-grade Hydrochloric Acid and perchloroethylene by extracting the Hydrochloric Acid in the same way as the standard. Calculate a response factor (R) by dividing the concentration (C) in mg/kg for each component by the peak area (A) for that component (subtract any area obtained from the blank sample): R = C/(A - area of blank) Procedure Accurately transfer 90 ml of the Hydrochloric Acid sample and 10 ml of perchloroethylene (free of interfering impurities) into a narrow-mouth, 125-ml bottle. Place the bottle in a mechanical shaker for 30 min. Separate the two phases (perchloroethylene on the bottom) and inject 3 μl of the perchloroethylene extract into the gas chromatograph. Approximate elution times in min for some chlorinated organic compounds are as follows: Vinylidene chloride: 2.94 Methylene chloride: 3.27 Chloroform: 3.83 Carbon tetrachloride: 4.07 1,1,1-Trichloroethane: 4.50 Trichloroethylene: 4.97 Ethylene dichloride: 5.26 Propylene dichloride: 6.36 Perchloroethylene: 6.95 1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane: 10.12 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane: 13.70 Pentachloroethane: 16.19 To determine perchloroethylene and higher-boiling impurities, substitute methylene chloride (free of interfering impurities) for perchloroethylene in the extraction step. For higher-boiling impurities such as monochlorobenzene and the three dichloro- benzenes, use a 2.74-m x 2.1-mm (id) stainless steel column packed with 10% Carbowax 20M/20% KOH on 80/100 mesh Chromasorb W (acid washed) at 150º and a nitrogen flow of 35 ml/min. Calculation Calculate the concentration (C), in mg/kg, of each compound by multiplying the corresponding peak area (A) (subtracted any area obtained from the blank sample) by the appropriate response factor (R) determined in the Calibration protocol: C = R x (A - area of blank) Precision The relative standard deviation at 5 mg/kg should not exceed 15% for five analyses.

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Authorised in other additives, enzymes, flavourings and nutrients

These authorisations are not for use in food. They let this substance be used inside another additive, a food enzyme, a flavouring or a nutrient preparation — often as a carrier — and it reaches food only as part of that product. Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.

PartMay be used inMaximum levelCitation
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additivesAll food additive preparationsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1" Note (1): Except enzymes authorised as food additives.quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 3: Food additives including carriers in food enzymesFood enzymesCan be used as a carrier: Yes Note (1): Including enzymes authorised as food additives.In enzyme preparation: quantum satis In final food except beverages: quantum satis In beverages: quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 3
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavouringsAll flavouringsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1"quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 4, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 5, Section A: Food additives added in nutrients except in nutrients intended to be used in foodstuffs listed in Part E, point 01.10, of Annex II and foodstuffs for infants and young children listed in Part E, point 13.1, of Annex IIAll nutrientsCan be used as a carrier: Yesquantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 5, Section A

Every name it appears under

88 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E507

INS number

  • 507

CAS registry number

  • 7647-01-0

As it appears in regulation

  • Hydrochloric acid

Other names

  • 4-D Bowl Sanitizer
  • Acid, Hydrochloric
  • Acid, Muriatic
  • Acide chlorhydrique
  • Acido clorhidrico
  • Acido cloridrico
  • Acidum hydrochloricum
  • Acidum Muriaticum
  • Anhydrous hydrochloric acid
  • Anhydrous hydrogen chloride
  • Aqueous hydrogen chloride
  • Baume hcl
  • Bowl Cleaner
  • Caswell No. 486
  • Chloorwaterstof
  • chlorane
  • chlorhydric acid
  • Chloride, Hydrogen
  • Chlorohydric acid
  • Chlorowodor
  • chlorure d'hydrogene
  • Chlorure d'hydrogene anhydre
  • Chloruro de hidrogeno
  • Chlorwasserstoff
  • cloruro de hidrogeno
  • Cloruro de hidrogeno anhidro
  • Deuterium-chloride
  • E 507
  • Emulsion Bowl Cleaner
  • Enplate po 236
  • EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 045901
  • Funoran
  • HCl
  • HEMMORHOIDS
  • HSDB 545
  • Hydrochloric acid
  • Hydrochloric acid gas
  • Hydrochloric acid, ACS reagent, 37%
  • Hydrochloric acid, anhydrous
  • hydrochloricacid
  • Hydrogen chloride
  • Hydrogen chloride (acid)
  • Hydrogen chloride (gas only)
  • Hydrogen chloride (HCl)
  • Hydrogen Chloride - Methanol Reagent
  • Hydrogenchlorid
  • Hygeia Creme Magic Bowl Cleaner
  • Icon etch
  • INS NO.507
  • INS-507
  • Marine acid
  • mono hydrochloride
  • monohydrochloride
  • Muriatic acid
  • Muriaticum acidum
  • Percleen Bowl and Urinal Cleaner
  • UN 1050 (anhydrous)
  • UN 2186 (refrigerated liquefied gas)
  • White Emulsion Bowl Cleaner

Systematic names

  • hydrogen chloride

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADInot limited—JECFA1965

Evidence and how bodies read it

What assessing bodies concluded

Each conclusion is paraphrased in the body's own framing, from the published opinion linked beneath it. Where bodies differ, both stand; this site does not adjudicate between them or add a view of its own.

  1. EFSA 2019

    The FAF Panel found no concern for genotoxicity or carcinogenicity for hydrochloric acid and its potassium, calcium and magnesium salts (E 507–E 509, E 511), and used a human reference value of 40 mg chloride/kg bw/day. Although high-percentile exposure in toddlers, children and adolescents was slightly above that value, it concluded that exposure to chloride from these additives does not raise a safety concern at reported uses.

    Source document

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 507?
E 507 is Hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is used as a processing aid and acidity regulator, chiefly to hydrolyse proteins and starches and to adjust pH during manufacture. It is generally neutralised before the food is finished.
What is Hydrochloric acid used for in food?
It is listed as an acidity regulator — the role Canada, Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Hydrochloric acid permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Hydrochloric acid vegan?
Yes. Hydrochloric acid is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

Machine-readable: a JSON record of this additive is given on request —how to ask for access.

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