Hydrogen E949
inert gas — Primarily synthetic.
Hydrogen gas
CAS: 1333-74-0
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 Hydrogen?
Hydrogen gas has limited food applications — it is used in food packaging atmospheres in very small amounts for specific applications and as a tracer gas for package integrity testing. Hydrogen can also be generated in the gut by fermentation of dietary fiber, a normal physiological process. JECFA considers hydrogen acceptable for authorized food applications. EFSA confirmed safety. Approved in the EU and other jurisdictions for specific packaging uses. Its flammability requires careful handling in industrial food processing environments.
? Did You Know?
In the EU, Hydrogen 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)
Permitted in specific categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
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
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Industrially produced.