Glycine E640
amino_acid — Primarily natural_or_synthetic.
Aminoacetic acid
CAS: 56-40-6
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Glycine?
Glycine is the simplest amino acid — the backbone molecule of protein synthesis — occurring naturally in all protein-containing foods. As a food additive (E640), it functions as a mild flavor enhancer and sweetness modifier in a variety of food products including meat products, seafood, and sweetened beverages. It is a normal endogenous metabolite and component of dietary proteins. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety in 2017 as part of the amino acid flavor enhancer evaluation. Approved in the EU and other jurisdictions.
? Did You Know?
Glycine occurs naturally in Meat and poultry and Fish and seafood. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Glycine is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Glycine has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
None
United States (FDA)
Generally recognized as safe
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
The simplest amino acid, naturally occurring in proteins. Has a sweet taste and is used as a flavor enhancer and sweetener. Also acts as a buffering agent.
Manufacturing
Commercially produced by chemical synthesis from chloroacetic acid and ammonia, or extracted from gelatin hydrolysate.
Applications Beyond Food
pH adjuster, skin conditioning agent
Used in antacid formulations, nutritional supplements, ingredient in IV solutions
Chemical intermediate, metal complexing agent