Sodium L-aspartate
Not authorised in EU, but permitted in AU-NZ and US. No evidence of harm at dietary intake.
- Category
- Flavour enhancers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
The sodium salt of the amino acid aspartic acid, functioning as a flavor enhancer.
How it is used in food
The sodium salt of aspartic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid; it serves as a flavor enhancer that rounds out savory and salty taste, and can support salt substitution.
Commonly found in- Historically as a flavor enhancer
Health and safety
No known risks at typical dietary levels.
Aspartate is a normal dietary amino acid metabolized like protein. Its non-authorisation in the EU reflects the absence of an approval application rather than any identified safety problem; it is permitted in the US and Australia/New Zealand.
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
- E638
Worth knowing
Aspartic acid is abundant in everyday protein foods — a serving of meat or legumes provides far more aspartate than any additive use would.
Conclusion
An unauthorized but biologically safe amino acid salt.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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