What is Sodium acetate used for in food?

It is listed as a preservative and 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 Sodium acetate 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 Sodium acetate vegan?

Yes. Sodium acetate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sodium acetate

127-09-3 · 129085-74-1 · 3 M Sodium Acetate (pH 5.2) · Acetate anion standard solution · Acetic acid, sodium salt · Acetic acid, sodium salt (1:1) · Acetic acidsodium salt · Acetic-1-14c acid,sodium salt(8ci,9ci) · Acetic-2-14c acid,sodium salt(8ci,9ci) · AcONa · Anhydrous sodium acetate · C2H3NaO2 · CAS-127-09-3 · Caswell No. 741A · CH3COONa · E 262(i) · EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 044006 · FEMA No. 3024 · FEMA Number 3024 · HSDB 688 · INS NO.262(I) · INS-262(I) · Monosodium acetate trihydrate · NaOAc · Natrium aceticum · Natriumacetat · Natriumazetat · Natrum Aceticum · NVG71ZZ7P0 · Octan sodny · Sodii acetas · sodium aceate · Sodium acetate · SODIUM ACETATE (18O2, 95%) · Sodium acetate (3h2o) · Sodium acetate acetic acid sodium salt · SODIUM ACETATE ANHY. · Sodium acetate anhydrous · Sodium Acetate Anhydrous, >99%, FCC, FG · Sodium Acetate Hydrate · Sodium Acetate In Plastic Container · Sodium Acetate Injection, USP, 200 mEq/100 mL · Sodium Acetate Injection, USP, 400 mEq/100 mL · Sodium acetate powder · Sodium acetate, 99.995% trace metals basis · Sodium acetate, ACS reagent · Sodium acetate, ACS reagent, >=99.0% · Sodium acetate, AR, anhydrous, >=99% · Sodium acetate, biochemical grade · Sodium acetate, BioXtra, >=99.0% · Sodium acetate, for HPLC, >=99.5% · Sodium acetate, JIS special grade, >=98.5% · Sodium acetate, LR, anhydrous, >=98% · Sodium acetate, SAJ first grade, >=98.0% · Sodium acetate, Trace metals grade, 99.99% · SODIUM ACETATE, USP · Sodium acetate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98% · Sodium acetate-18O2 · Sodium Acetate; Sodium Ethanoate · Sodium ethanoate · sodium-acetate · sodiumacetate · E262 · 262(i) · Sodium acetate · Sodium acetate · Sodium acetates · Acetati di sodio · Acetatos de sodio · Acetați de sodiu · Acétates de sodium · Aċitati tas-sodju · Naatriumatsetaadid · Natrijevi acetati · Natrio acetatas · Natriumacetate · Natriumacetaten · Natriumacetater · Natriumasetaatit · Nátrium-acetátok · Nātrija acetāti · Octany sodné · Octany sodu · Sodium acetates · Οξικά άλατα του νατρίου · Натриев ацетат

E number E262INS 262(i)CAS 127-09-3

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

Listed as preservatives (CA, US, Codex) · acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · sequestrants (Codex) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · starch-modifying agents (CA)

Canada: Preservative — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11)
United States: Antimicrobial agent — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM ACETATE
Codex Alimentarius: Preservative — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 262(i)
Canada: Acidity regulator — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10)
United States: pH control agent — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM ACETATE
United States: pH control agents — 21 CFR 184.1721, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(23)
Codex Alimentarius: Acidity regulator — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 262(i)
Codex Alimentarius: Sequestrant — CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 262(i)
United States: Flavoring agent or adjuvant — FDA, Substances Added to Food: SODIUM ACETATE
United States: Flavoring agents and adjuvants — 21 CFR 184.1721, citing 21 CFR 170.3(o)(12)
Canada: Starch-modifying agent — Health Canada, List of Permitted Starch-Modifying Agents (List 13)

Structure from PubChem CID 517045 (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.

Sodium acetate is an acidity regulator and preservative used in bread, snack foods and processed meats, and in salt-and-vinegar flavourings.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Sodium acetate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
Jurisdiction	Status	Scope and limits	Citation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New Zealand	Permitted, with conditions	56 food categories highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg 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 13.2 Foods for infants — 5,000 mg/kg 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 8.1.1 Poultry — 5,000 mg/kg 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 55 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth Canada	Permitted	no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice) 4 permitted uses Show every permitted use In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.1 In: Brawn; Headcheese; Meat and meat by-product loaf; Meat by-product loaf; Meat loaf; Meat lunch; Meat roll; Potted meat; Potted meat by-product; Prepared meat or prepared meat by-product; Prepared poultry meat or prepared poultry meat by-product; Preserved meat or preserved meat by-product; Preserved poultry meat or preserved poultry meat by-product; Sausage. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item S.1(a) In: Unstandardized preparations of meat or meat by-product; Unstandardized preparations of poultry meat or poultry meat by-product. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item S.1(b) 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 S.1	Health Canadaand 3 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSA	Permitted, with conditions	73 food categories Show every food category 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 16Authorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella. 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only processed cereal based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment. 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 juicesAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 productsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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_drinksAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 otherAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 perryAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 wineAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 MeadAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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) 2019/787Authorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 winesAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 drinksAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 cocktailsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 %Authorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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’,Authorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 ingredientsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 vegetablesAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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. 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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/ECAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars. 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 GnocchiAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi. 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 rollsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek. 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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. 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added. 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 productsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 roeAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 72 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards Scotland	Permitted, with conditions	71 food categories Show every food category 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella. 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment. 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi. 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek. 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. quantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added. 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 262, Sodium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.	Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs Agency	Permitted, with conditions	Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 162, 酢酸ナトリウム (“Sodium Acetate” in the unofficial English translation). … Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 162, 酢酸ナトリウム (“Sodium Acetate” 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): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. 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 Safety	Permitted, with conditions	Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. … Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 초산나트륨 (“Sodium Acetate”, the English the Code prints beside it). Main use (주용도) of 초산나트륨: 산도조절제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 초산나트륨: (1) [to be used under the general standard for use in II. 2. 1), the minimum amount that achieves the technical effect, with no limit set for this additive in particular] “II. 2. 1)의 규정에 따라 사용하여야 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 Administration	Permitted		21 CFR 184.1721retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFA	Permitted, with conditions	13 food categories highest permitted level 6,000 mg/kg Show every food category and its notes 01.2.1.2 Fermented milks (plain), heat-treated after fermentation — GMP Note 631 Except for use in plain fermented milks and drinks based on fermented milks that are heat treated after fermentation conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) as an acidity regulator. 04.2.2.7 Fermented vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera) and seaweed products, excluding fermented soybean products of food categories 06.8.6, 06.8.7, 12.9.1, — GMP Note XS294 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gochujang (CXS 294-2009). 06.4.1 Fresh pastas and noodles and like products — 6,000 mg/kg 06.4.2 Dried pastas and noodles and like products — GMP Note 256 For use in noodles, gluten-free pasta and pasta intended for hypoproteic diets only. 09.2.2 Frozen battered fish, fish fillets and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP Note 41 For use in breading or batter coatings only. Note XS166 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets – Breaded or in Batter (CODEX STAN 166-1989). 09.2.3 Frozen minced and creamed fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP Note 16 For use in glaze, coatings or decorations for fruit, vegetables, meat or fish only. 09.2.4 Cooked and/or fried fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP 09.2.5 Smoked, dried, fermented, and/or salted fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP Note XS167 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of Fishes (CODEX STAN 167-1989). Note XS189 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Shark Fins (CODEX STAN 189-1993). Note XS222 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Crackers from Marine and Freshwater Fish, Crustaceans and Molluscan Shellfish (CODEX STAN 222-2001). Note XS236 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Boiled Dried Salted Anchovies (CODEX STAN 236-2003). Note XS244 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring and Salted Sprat (CODEX STAN 244-2004). Note XS311 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Smoked Fish, Smoked-flavoured Fish and Smoke-dried Fish (CODEX STAN 311-2013). 10.2.1 Liquid egg products — GMP 10.2.2 Frozen egg products — GMP 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — GMP 13.2 Complementary foods for infants and young children — GMP Note 320 Within the limit for sodium listed in the Codex Standard for Processed Cereal-based Foods for Infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) for foods corresponding to that standard : singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives. Note XS73 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Baby Foods (CODEX STAN 73-1981). 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions, and other hot cereal and grain beverages, excluding cocoa — GMP Note 160 For use in ready-to-drink products and pre-mixes for ready-to-drink products only.	CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 262(i)and 13 further provisionsretrieved 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	5,000 mg/kg	2 numeric limit, 54 GMP
Canada	—	4 GMP
European Union	—	46 several limits, 5 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain	—	71 quantum satis
Japan	—	1 no quantity stated
South Korea	—	1 no quantity stated
United States	—	1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius	6,000 mg/kg	1 numeric limit, 13 GMP

What it is made from

Made by neutralising acetic acid with sodium carbonate or hydroxide.

Vegan
Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number: 127-09-3
InChIKey: VMHLLURERBWHNL-UHFFFAOYSA-M
PubChem: CID 517045

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.

Parameter	European Union	JECFA
Assay	no less than 98.5 %	no less than 98.5 %
Loss on drying	stated in prose	no more than 2 %
Lead	no more than 2 mg/kg	no more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenic	no more than 3 mg/kg	—
Mercury	no more than 1 mg/kg	—

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

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 262(i) Sodium acetate

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs: 204-823-8
Chemical name: Sodium acetate
Chemical formula: C₂H₃NaO₂·nH₂O (n = 0 or 3)
Molecular weight: Anhydrous: 82,03
Trihydrate:: 136,08
Assay: Content (for both of anhydrous and trihydrate form) not less than 98,5 % on the anhydrous basis
Description: Anhydrous: White, odourless, granular, hygroscopic powder
Trihydrate:: Colourless, transparent crystals or a granular crystalline powder, odourless or with a faint, acetic odour. Effloresces in warm, dry air

Identification

pH: 8,0-9,5 (1 % aqueous solution)
Test for acetate: Passes test
Test for sodium: Passes test

Purity criteria

Loss on drying: Anhydrous: Not more than 2 % (120 °C, 4 hours)
Trihydrate:: Between 36 and 42 % (120 °C, 4 hours)
Formic acid, formates and other oxidisable substances: Not more than 1 000 mg/kg expressed as formic acid
Arsenic: Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead: Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury: Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 262(i)

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 262(i) Sodium Acetate

Synonyms: INS No. 262(i)

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history: Prepared at the 18th JECFA (1974), published in NMRS 54B (1975) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 59th JECFA (2002). An ADI not limited' was established at the 17th JECFA (1973)
Chemical names: Sodium acetate
C.A.S. number: 127-09-3
Chemical formula: C 2 H 3 NaO 2 · nH 2 O (n = 0 or 3)
Structural formula: CH 3 COONa · nH 2 O (n = 0 or 3)
Formula weight: Anhydrous: 82.03 Trihydrate: 136.08
Assay: Not less than 98.5% after drying
DESCRIPTION: Anhydrous: White, odourless, granular, hygroscopic powder Trihydrate: Colourless, transparent crystals or a granular crystalline powder, odourless or with a faint, acetic odour. Effloresces in warm, dry air.
FUNCTIONAL USES: Buffer
METHOD OF ASSAY: Weigh accurately about 200 mg of the sample obtained in the test for "Loss on drying". Dissolve in 40 ml of glacial acetic acid, add 2 drops of crystal violet TS, and titrate with 0.1 N perchloric acid in glacial acetic acid. Perform a blank determination, and make any necessary correction. Each ml of 0.1 N perchloric acid is equivalent to 8.203 mg of C 2 H 3 NaO 2 .

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4): Very soluble in water; soluble in ethanol
pH (Vol. 4): 8.0 - 9.5 (1 in 100 soln)
Test for sodium (Vol. 4): Passes test
Test for acetate (Vol. 4): Passes test
Heat test: Anhydrous: When heating the sample slowly, it first fuses gradually and boils, and later decomposes evolving an unpleasant odour of acetone. A solution of the residue gives alkaline reaction with litmus paper. Trihydrate: When heating the sample slowly, it liquefies. Then water evaporates, and a powder forms. By heating more strongly, the powder fuses, and becomes lumpy and later decomposes evolving an odour of acetone. A solution of the residue gives alkaline reaction with litmus paper.

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4): Anhydrous: Not more than 2.0% (120 o , 4 h) Trihydrate: Between 36 and 42% (120 o , 4 h)
Test for potassium (Vol. 4): Negative test
Acidity and alkalinity: Anhydrous: Dissolve 1.2 g of the sample in 20 ml of freshly boiled and cooled water. Add 2 drops of phenolphthalein TS, and keep the solution at 10 o . If a colourless solution is produced, not more than 0.1 ml of 0.1 N sodium hydroxide should be required to give a pink colour. If a pink colour is produced, not more than 0.1 N hydrochloric acid should be required to discharge it. Trihydrate: Weigh 2 g of the sample and proceed as directed under Anhydrous above.
Lead (Vol. 4): Not more than 2 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.”

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.

Part	May be used in	Maximum level	Citation
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additives	All 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 satis	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 3: Food additives including carriers in food enzymes	Food enzymesNote (1): Including enzymes authorised as food additives.	In enzyme preparation: quantum satis In final food except beverages: quantum satis In beverages: quantum satis	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 3
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavourings	All flavouringsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1"	quantum satis	Regulation (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 II	All nutrients	quantum satis	Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 5, Section A

Every name it appears under

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

E number

E262

INS number

262(i)

CAS registry number

127-09-3
129085-74-1

As it appears in regulation

Sodium acetate
Sodium acetates

Other names

3 M Sodium Acetate (pH 5.2)
Acetate anion standard solution
Acetic acid, sodium salt
Acetic acid, sodium salt (1:1)
Acetic acidsodium salt
Acetic-1-14c acid,sodium salt(8ci,9ci)
Acetic-2-14c acid,sodium salt(8ci,9ci)
AcONa
Anhydrous sodium acetate
C2H3NaO2
CAS-127-09-3
Caswell No. 741A
CH3COONa
E 262(i)
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 044006
FEMA No. 3024
FEMA Number 3024
HSDB 688
INS NO.262(I)
INS-262(I)
Monosodium acetate trihydrate
NaOAc
Natrium aceticum
Natriumacetat
Natriumazetat
Natrum Aceticum
NVG71ZZ7P0
Octan sodny
Sodii acetas
sodium aceate
Sodium acetate
SODIUM ACETATE (18O2, 95%)
Sodium acetate (3h2o)
Sodium acetate acetic acid sodium salt
SODIUM ACETATE ANHY.
Sodium acetate anhydrous
Sodium Acetate Anhydrous, >99%, FCC, FG
Sodium Acetate Hydrate
Sodium Acetate In Plastic Container
Sodium Acetate Injection, USP, 200 mEq/100 mL
Sodium Acetate Injection, USP, 400 mEq/100 mL
Sodium acetate powder
Sodium acetate, 99.995% trace metals basis
Sodium acetate, ACS reagent
Sodium acetate, ACS reagent, >=99.0%
Sodium acetate, AR, anhydrous, >=99%
Sodium acetate, biochemical grade
Sodium acetate, BioXtra, >=99.0%
Sodium acetate, for HPLC, >=99.5%
Sodium acetate, JIS special grade, >=98.5%
Sodium acetate, LR, anhydrous, >=98%
Sodium acetate, SAJ first grade, >=98.0%
Sodium acetate, Trace metals grade, 99.99%
SODIUM ACETATE, USP
Sodium acetate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%
Sodium acetate-18O2
Sodium Acetate; Sodium Ethanoate
Sodium ethanoate
sodium-acetate
sodiumacetate

Systematic names

Sodium acetate

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
Type	Value	Population	Assessed by	Opinion
ADI	not limited	—	JECFA	1973

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

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 262?: E 262 is Sodium acetate. Sodium acetate is an acidity regulator and preservative used in bread, snack foods and processed meats, and in salt-and-vinegar flavourings.
What is Sodium acetate used for in food?: It is listed as a preservative and 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 Sodium acetate 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 Sodium acetate vegan?: Yes. Sodium acetate 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.

Follow changes to Sodium acetate:Atom feed — regulatory events, and any change the weekly refresh detects in its provisions.