What the Numbers Mean
The first digit of the E number tells you the main job or type of the additive:
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E100–E199: Colours (used to change or brighten food color)
E200–E299: Preservatives (used to stop food from going bad)
E300–E399: Antioxidants and acidity regulators (used to stop spoiling from oxygen and control acid)
E400–E499: Thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers (used to keep texture smooth and mixed)
E500–E599: Acidity regulators and anti-caking agents (used to keep powders from clumping)
E600–E699: Flavour enhancers (used to make food taste stronger)
E900–E999: Sweeteners, gases, and glazing agents (used for sweet taste or coating)
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Common Examples
E100: Curcumin (yellow food color from turmeric)
E300: Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C used as an antioxidant)
E330: Citric acid (used for sour flavor or acidity)
E440: Pectin (natural gelling agent from fruit used in jam)
E621: Monosodium glutamate or MSG (flavor enhancer)