preservative INS 284

Boric Acid E284

antimicrobial — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Banned

🇺🇸 USA: Banned

🇯🇵 Japan: Restricted

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Banned

🇨🇦 Canada: Banned

Scientific Name

Orthoboric acid

CAS: 10043-35-3

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Boric Acid occurs naturally in Volcanic regions and Hot springs. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Boric Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

banned Max: 0 mg/kg

Not authorized for use in foods

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

banned Not approved for food use

Not approved for use in food

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

restricted Cat: 指定添加物

Only permitted in caviar at very low levels

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not evaluated for food use

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not safe for food use

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

A weak acid with antimicrobial properties. Historically used as a preservative but now banned or restricted in most countries due to toxicity concerns.

Volcanic regionsHot springsSeawater (trace amounts)

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by reacting borax (sodium borate) with a mineral acid such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Historically used but now restricted in many regions

Medical

Eyewash solutions (low concentrations)

Industrial

Insecticide, flame retardant, antiseptic

Household

Pest control, cleaning agent

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boric Acid (E284)?

Boric Acid (E284) is a preservative used in food products. It is antimicrobial and synthetic. A weak acid with antimicrobial properties. Historically used as a preservative but now banned or restricted in most countries due to toxicity concerns.

Is Boric Acid banned in any country?

Boric Acid is banned in EU, USA, Canada, Australia/NZ. It has restricted use in Japan. Regulatory status varies by country. Always check with your local food regulatory authority for current information.

Where is Boric Acid found naturally?

Boric Acid is naturally found in Volcanic regions, Hot springs, Seawater (trace amounts). A weak acid with antimicrobial properties. Historically used as a preservative but now banned or restricted in most countries due to toxicity concerns.

What is the ADI for Boric Acid?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Boric Acid is Not evaluated for food use as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

Is Boric Acid the same as Boracic acid?

Yes, Boric Acid is also known as Boracic acid, Hydrogen borate. These are different names for the same substance.

Primary Research & Evidence