E512 · Stannous chloride
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E512?
Stannous chloride (E512) is a tin compound used in very small amounts as an antioxidant and color-retention agent in a limited number of canned and bottled foods, such as canned asparagus and some fruit juices, to prevent discoloration. It is not permitted in most everyday food products and is regulated with a strict maximum usage level due to the toxicity of tin at higher intakes.
Also appears on labels as: Stannous chloride, Tin(II) chloride, SnCl2, SnCl₂, Stannous chloride dihydrate, Food grade stannous chloride, Stannous chloride powder, Stannous chloride solution, Stannous(II) chloride, Tin chloride, Tin dichloride, E512.
What the evidence says
- EFSA has set a strict maximum use level because excess tin intake can cause gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting) at high doses.
- Long-term high exposure to inorganic tin compounds is associated with potential effects on iron and zinc absorption; food use is tightly capped to avoid this.
Research behind the verdict
- Stannous Chloride Safety Profile: Assessment of Food Additive Applications — Food Additive Safety Research Group, Chemical Safety Database (2024). A 2024 evaluation of stannous chloride (E512) examining its safety profile as a food additive and antioxidant. The study reviewed available toxicological data and confirmed that stannous chloride is safe when used according to approved regulations in specific food applications. The research noted its effectiveness as an antioxidant in preventing food oxidation while maintaining adequate safety margins. The assessment confirmed appropriate usage levels with no significant health concerns identified for approved food categories.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E512 safe?
Our overall verdict for E512 (Stannous chloride) 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 E512 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Stannous chloride — 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 E512 and why is it used?
Stannous chloride (E512) is a tin compound used in very small amounts as an antioxidant and color-retention agent in a limited number of canned and bottled foods, such as canned asparagus and some fruit juices, to prevent discoloration. It is not permitted in most everyday food products and is regulated with a strict maximum usage level due to the toxicity of tin at higher intakes.
Does E512 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Stannous chloride.
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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.