What is E234?

Nisin is a polycyclic antibacterial peptide produced by the bacterium Lactococcus lactis that is used as a food preservative. It has 34 amino acid residues, including the uncommon amino acids lanthionine (Lan), methyllanthionine (MeLan), didehydroalanine (Dha), and didehydroaminobutyric acid (Dhb). E234 sits in the E200–E299 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers preservatives.

What is E234 used for?

E234 belongs to the preservatives group. Preservatives stop food from spoiling by slowing bacteria, mould and yeast. Most are safe, though some people limit certain ones.

Is E234 safe?

E234 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 E234 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E234 either as the number “E234” or by the name “Nisin” 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 E234 vegan?

Yes, E234 is suitable for vegans.