Alanine
A safe, naturally occurring amino acid.
- Category
- Flavour enhancers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A non-essential amino acid occasionally used as a flavor enhancer or nutritional supplement.
How it is used in food
L-Alanine is a naturally sweet amino acid used as a flavour modifier: it rounds out sourness, masks the bitter and metallic aftertaste of high-intensity sweeteners and potassium salts, and adds body to pickles, broths, dressings and sports drinks. It also participates in Maillard browning, contributing to baked and roasted aromas.
Commonly found in- Sports supplements
- Flavorings
Health and safety
Completely safe; it is a standard amino acid naturally produced by the human body.
Alanine is a non-essential amino acid the body synthesises and consumes continuously, and dietary protein supplies it in gram quantities daily, far above any additive use level. JECFA and other bodies have found no safety concern for its use as a flavour substance. "E 369" is not an official EU additive number; in the EU, free amino acids used for taste are regulated as flavourings or food ingredients rather than as additives.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (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
- E369
Worth knowing
Alanine is central to the glucose–alanine cycle, the route by which muscle exports nitrogen to the liver during exercise and fasting — the same molecule that sweetens a pickle is how your legs offload ammonia during a long run.
Conclusion
A safe, naturally occurring amino acid.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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