E444 · Sucrose acetate isobutyrate
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Sucrose acetate isobutyrate yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E444?
Sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB) is a synthetic ester used mainly as a weighting agent in citrus-flavored soft drinks, keeping flavor oils evenly suspended so they don't float to the surface. It is also used as a glazing or coating agent in some confections. It is approved for food use within regulated limits by the FDA and EFSA.
Also appears on labels as: Sucrose acetate isobutyrate, SAIB, Sucrose acetic isobutyric ester, Sucrose ester of acetic and isobutyric acids, E444, E 444, E-444, Food emulsifier SAIB, Sucrose acetate-isobutyrate, Acetylated sucrose isobutyrate, Sucrose ester SAIB, Sacharozės acetatas izobutiratas.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels used as a beverage weighting agent.
- High-dose animal studies have shown liver effects, but these greatly exceed realistic dietary exposure.
Research behind the verdict
- Re‐evaluation of sucrose acetate isobutyrate (E 444) as a food additive — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), EFSA Journal (2016). The EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) provides a scientific opinion re-evaluating the safety of sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB, E 444) as a food additive. The Panel agreed with the JECFA and SCF conclusions that the hepatic effects observed in the dog have little relevance to the safety evaluation in humans. The Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for the general population when SAIB (E 444) is used as a food additive.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E444 safe?
Our overall verdict for E444 (Sucrose acetate isobutyrate) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E444 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sucrose acetate isobutyrate — 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 E444 and why is it used?
Sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB) is a synthetic ester used mainly as a weighting agent in citrus-flavored soft drinks, keeping flavor oils evenly suspended so they don't float to the surface. It is also used as a glazing or coating agent in some confections. It is approved for food use within regulated limits by the FDA and EFSA.
Does E444 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sucrose acetate isobutyrate.
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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.