E285 · Sodium tetraborate (borax)
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E285?
Sodium tetraborate (borax) is a naturally occurring boron compound used in cleaning products, cosmetics, and industrial processes such as glass and ceramics manufacturing. In the EU it is authorized as a food additive only in caviar (sturgeon roe), not for general food use, due to safety concerns at higher exposure. It can be irritating to skin and eyes at high concentrations and is classified as a reproductive toxicant.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium tetraborate, Borax, Sodium borate, Disodium tetraborate, Na2B4O7·10H2O, Borax decahydrate, E285, E 285, E-285, Food additive borax, Borax powder, Sodium tetraborate decahydrate.
What the evidence says
- Classified as a reproductive toxicant in the EU; may affect fertility or an unborn child at high exposure.
- Can irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tract at high concentrations.
- Food use is restricted essentially to caviar under EU rules; not intended for general food consumption.
Frequently asked questions
Is E285 safe?
Our overall verdict for E285 (Sodium tetraborate (borax)) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E285 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium tetraborate (borax) — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E285 and why is it used?
Sodium tetraborate (borax) is a naturally occurring boron compound used in cleaning products, cosmetics, and industrial processes such as glass and ceramics manufacturing. In the EU it is authorized as a food additive only in caviar (sturgeon roe), not for general food use, due to safety concerns at higher exposure. It can be irritating to skin and eyes at high concentrations and is classified as a reproductive toxicant.
Does E285 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium tetraborate (borax).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.