What is E284?

Boric acid, more specifically orthoboric acid, is a compound of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen with formula B(OH)3. It may also be called hydrogen orthoborate, trihydroxidoboron or boracic acid. E284 sits in the E200–E299 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers preservatives.

What is E284 used for?

E284 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 E284 safe?

E284 is one of the additives Skaren flags as “avoid”. Many people choose to limit their intake of it. “Avoid” means it is linked to health concerns, requires a warning label, or is banned in some countries.

How E284 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E284 either as the number “E284” or by the name “Boric acid” 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 E284 vegan?

Yes, E284 is suitable for vegans.