Ethyl lauroyl arginate
A safe, modern antimicrobial that acts without leaving toxic residues.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A highly effective antimicrobial preservative that breaks down quickly in the body.
How it is used in food
Ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE) is a cationic surfactant preservative that is unusually effective against Listeria monocytogenes, making it valuable on ready-to-eat meats and other chilled foods where Listeria is the critical hazard. It works at very low concentrations, is active across a broad pH range, and is flavourless at use levels, so it can reduce reliance on nitrites and higher-dose preservatives.
Commonly found in- Meat products
- Cheese
- Prepared salads
Health and safety
Metabolizes quickly into natural dietary components (amino acids and fats); considered very safe.
EFSA assessed it in 2007 and established an ADI of 0.5 mg per kg of body weight per day; it was authorised in the EU for specified categories including heat-treated meat products, with use levels set so that exposure stays below the ADI. The FDA has accepted GRAS notifications for its use in similar applications. Its surfactant nature means the main open question is local gut effects at high intakes rather than systemic toxicity.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E243
Worth knowing
It is built from three ordinary dietary building blocks — the amino acid L-arginine, lauric acid (the main fatty acid in coconut oil) and ethanol. In the body it is hydrolysed back into exactly those components, which is why it leaves no unusual residue: the breakdown products enter normal amino-acid and fat metabolism.
Conclusion
A safe, modern antimicrobial that acts without leaving toxic residues.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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