E385: Calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate
What is E385?
Calcium disodium EDTA is the calcium and sodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a synthetic compound that binds tightly to metal ions. Labelled E385, it is a white, odourless powder.
Origin and production
It is produced entirely by chemical synthesis; it does not occur in nature.
Why is it used?
By locking up traces of metals such as iron and copper, it prevents them from triggering oxidation, which would otherwise cause rancidity, off-flavours and colour changes. It is used in mayonnaise, salad dressings and other emulsified sauces, and in some canned foods and drinks.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Calcium disodium EDTA is synthetic and contains no animal-derived ingredients, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is not generally associated with halal or kosher concerns.
Safety and regulation
It is authorised as a food additive in the EU only for a limited list of foods, such as emulsified sauces and certain canned and frozen products, with maximum permitted levels. It has been evaluated by EFSA and by JECFA.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E385
