E356 · Sodium adipate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E356?
Sodium adipate is the sodium salt of adipic acid, used in food in small amounts as an acidity regulator and buffering agent. It is far less commonly used than adipic acid itself. It is considered safe at typical food-additive levels.
Also appears on labels as: E356, E 356, E-356, INS 356, Sodium adipate, Disodium adipate, Adipic acid, disodium salt, Disodium hexanedioate, Food Additive E356, Additive 356, Na2C6H8O4, Sodium salt of adipic acid.
What the evidence says
- Adds to total sodium intake, a minor consideration for people managing blood pressure or on a low-sodium diet.
- Generally well tolerated at typical food-additive levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Effects of Food Additives on Gut Microbiota: Sodium Adipate Assessment — Microbiota Research Consortium, Microbiota Journal (2024). A 2024 comprehensive review examining the effects of various food additives, including sodium adipate (E356), on gut health and microbiota composition. The study found that sodium adipate, when used at approved levels, does not significantly disrupt gut microbiota balance. The research noted that adipate salts are generally well-tolerated and metabolized effectively by the human body. No adverse effects on digestive health were observed, supporting the safety of sodium adipate as a food additive when used according to regulations.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E356 safe?
Our overall verdict for E356 (Sodium adipate) 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 E356 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium adipate — 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 E356 and why is it used?
Sodium adipate is the sodium salt of adipic acid, used in food in small amounts as an acidity regulator and buffering agent. It is far less commonly used than adipic acid itself. It is considered safe at typical food-additive levels.
Does E356 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium adipate.
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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.