Some concerns raised; more research may be needed
Sodium Tetraborate (Borax)
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) (E285) is rated "Use Caution" according to current evidence. It is restricted in the EU and banned/not approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax)?
Caviar only. Banned in US for food
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
BANNEDUS name: Borax
Banned in US for food. Approved in EU for caviar only
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (restricted)Caviar only. Banned in US for food
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Likely restrictedStatus may differ from US. Check Health Canada's List of Permitted Food Additives.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
Check FSSAIVerify with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
Check ANVISAVerify with Brazil's ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) is classified as a preservative in the food additive regulatory framework. While approved for use, some scientific studies have raised questions that warrant ongoing monitoring. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is approved in the EU but banned or not approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) safe?
Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) has a safety rating of "Use Caution". Some concerns raised; more research may be needed
Is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) vegan?
Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) banned in Europe?
No, Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) is Approved (restricted) in the EU.
What is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) made from?
Caviar only. Banned in US for food
Weekly Ingredient Alert
Get weekly updates on food additive news, regulatory changes, and safety alerts.
Found a concerning additive?
Looking for cleaner alternatives? Check out these options:
Recommended Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) safe?
Is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) banned in any country?
What is Sodium Tetraborate (Borax) used for?
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
Related Searches
People also ask:
Want Additive-Free Food?
Explore organic food delivery services that prioritize clean ingredients.
Explore Clean Food Options →