E642 · Flavour enhancers
Lysine hydrochloride
Not authorised in AU-NZ and EU and US. No evidence of harm at dietary intake.
- Category
- Flavour enhancers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A salt of the essential amino acid lysine, historically used as a flavor enhancer or dietary supplement.
How it is used in food
Provides an essential amino acid to the diet.
Commonly found in- None (Banned)
Health and safety
No known risks at typical dietary levels.
Evaluated by food safety authorities and determined to be unsafe for general food use.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Not approved | Not approved for general food use or historically banned due to safety concerns. |
| 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) |
Not approved | Not approved for general food use or historically banned due to safety concerns. |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E642
Also printed asL-Lysine hydrochloride · Lysine monohydrochloride
Worth knowing
Lysine is essential for human health but cannot be synthesized by the body, so it must be obtained from food.
Conclusion
An unauthorized additive.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-08-05.
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