E634 · Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E634?
Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides are calcium salts of the flavor-enhancing nucleotides inosinate (IMP) and guanylate (GMP), used to intensify savory umami taste in soups, sauces, seasoning blends, and snack foods. They are typically used alongside MSG for a stronger combined flavor effect. EFSA and the FDA regard them as safe for consumption when used within regulated limits.
Also appears on labels as: Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides, Calcium 5-prime ribonucleotides, Calcium inosinate, Calcium guanylate, 5'-ribonucleotide calcium salt, Calcium IMP, Calcium GMP, Flavor enhancer calcium 5'-ribonucleotides, E634, E 634, E-634, Calcium nucleotides.
What the evidence says
- May be sourced from meat, fish, or microbial/yeast fermentation depending on the manufacturer, so animal origin is not always excluded.
- Contribute to dietary purine load, relevant for people with gout or hyperuricemia.
Research behind the verdict
- Scientific Opinion on the re‐evaluation of calcium 5′‐ribonucleotides (E 634) and disodium 5′‐ribonucleotides (E 635) as food additives — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), EFSA Journal (2018). The Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) provided a scientific opinion re‐evaluating the safety of calcium 5′‐ribonucleotides (E 634) and disodium 5′‐ribonucleotides (E 635) when used as food additives. These compounds are mixtures of guanylates and inosinates. The Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for the general population when these substances are used as food additives at the reported use levels.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E634 safe?
Our overall verdict for E634 (Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E634 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides — vegan: no, vegetarian: no, halal: no, kosher: no, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E634 and why is it used?
Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides are calcium salts of the flavor-enhancing nucleotides inosinate (IMP) and guanylate (GMP), used to intensify savory umami taste in soups, sauces, seasoning blends, and snack foods. They are typically used alongside MSG for a stronger combined flavor effect. EFSA and the FDA regard them as safe for consumption when used within regulated limits.
Does E634 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Calcium 5'-ribonucleotides.
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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.