Additives
Boric Acid (E284): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Hazardous
Preservative · Antimicrobial
Antimicrobial preservative restricted in the EU to a very limited use in Beluga and Sevruga caviar only. Boric acid is toxic — accumulates in the body and can cause kidney damage, nausea, and neurological effects. Banned as a food additive in most contexts worldwide.
- Category
- Preservative — Antimicrobial
- Typically used in
- Beluga and Sevruga caviar only (EU restricted)
- Regulatory status
- Highly restricted in EU. Banned in most food uses globally. Toxic accumulation risk.
- Concerns flagged
-
Kidney effectsNeurotoxicity concernReproductive-health concern
Scrannr flags Boric Acid automatically when you scan a barcode.
Sources
Where this comes from
- EFSA (2013) — Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of boric acid -E 284- and sodium tetraborate -borax- -E 285- as food additives. http://dx.doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2013.3407
Products
Products containing Boric Acid
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