Buffered vinegar
E267 offers a natural way to keep food fresh longer without synthetic chemicals.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Buffered vinegar (E267) is a natural alternative to chemical preservatives, extending shelf life by inhibiting bacterial growth.
How it is used in food
Buffered vinegar is vinegar partly neutralised with sodium or potassium hydroxide, producing an acetate/diacetate blend that inhibits Listeria and spoilage organisms without the harsh sourness of straight vinegar. It lets manufacturers extend the shelf life of deli meats, fresh pasta and prepared salads while still declaring a recognisable kitchen ingredient on the label.
Commonly found in- Fresh meat
- Poultry
- Ready-to-eat meals
Health and safety
A safe, natural ingredient recognized globally as a clean-label preservative.
"E267" is not an official EU additive number; buffered vinegar is treated as a food ingredient, and its antimicrobial components correspond to the well-characterised acetates E 261–E 263. Published challenge studies in ready-to-eat meats consistently show Listeria suppression at use levels around 1–3%, and safety follows that of acetic acid and its salts, for which no numerical ADI is considered necessary.
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
- E267
Worth knowing
Its commercial appeal is largely regulatory rather than technical: in the United States it can often be declared simply as "vinegar" instead of as a preservative, which is why it became the workhorse of the clean-label movement.
Conclusion
E267 offers a natural way to keep food fresh longer without synthetic chemicals.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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