E943B · Isobutane
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E943B?
Isobutane (E943b) is a flammable, colorless gas used as a propellant in aerosol food products, such as whipped cream and cooking sprays. It is chemically inert toward food and is not absorbed in meaningful amounts under normal use. Outside of food, it is also widely used as a refrigerant.
Also appears on labels as: Isobutane, E943b, E 943b, E-943b, 2-Methylpropane, Methylpropane, i-Butane, HC-600a, R-600a, Refrigerant 600a, Propellant gas Isobutane, Food additive E943b.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at the trace levels used as a food propellant.
- Flammable and an asphyxiant in concentrated non-food exposure (e.g. industrial handling or inhalant misuse), not relevant to normal food consumption.
Frequently asked questions
Is E943B safe?
Our overall verdict for E943B (Isobutane) 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 E943B vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Isobutane — 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 E943B and why is it used?
Isobutane (E943b) is a flammable, colorless gas used as a propellant in aerosol food products, such as whipped cream and cooking sprays. It is chemically inert toward food and is not absorbed in meaningful amounts under normal use. Outside of food, it is also widely used as a refrigerant.
Does E943B contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Isobutane.
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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.