What is E101?

Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a vitamin found in food and sold as a dietary supplement. It is essential to the formation of two major coenzymes, flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide. E101 sits in the E100–E199 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers colours.

What is E101 used for?

E101 belongs to the colours group. Colours are added to give or restore colour to food. Some are natural, like curcumin from turmeric; some synthetic dyes are debated and require warning labels in the EU.

Is E101 safe?

E101 is considered safe at the levels used in food and is approved for use in the EU. “Safe” means it is approved in the EU and regarded as safe at the levels used in food.

How E101 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E101 either as the number “E101” or by the name “Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)” in the ingredient list, often after its function. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so an additive near the end is present only in small amounts.

Is E101 vegan?

Yes, E101 is suitable for vegans.