Stannous chloride
Safe at restricted levels, but its use of heavy metals makes it controversial.
- Category
- Antioxidants
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A tin-based chemical compound used exclusively to retain the color of canned asparagus.
How it is used in food
A powerful reducing agent that prevents oxidative discolouration, used almost exclusively to keep canned and bottled white asparagus from turning grey or yellow.
Commonly found in- Canned white asparagus
Health and safety
High intake of tin can cause gastric irritation. It is heavily restricted to specific canned goods.
EFSA re-evaluated stannous chloride (E512) in 2018 and found no safety concern at the authorised use level. Tin is poorly absorbed from the gut, but studies show concentrations above roughly 200 mg/kg in food can cause acute gastric irritation, which is why strict limits apply.
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
- E512
Worth knowing
In the EU its use is restricted to a single food category — white asparagus in cans and jars — making it one of the most narrowly permitted additives on the entire E-number list.
Conclusion
Safe at restricted levels, but its use of heavy metals makes it controversial.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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