E285 – Sodium tetraborate

Description

Borax, a white crystalline powder, used as a preservative and buffering agent

Risks

Notes

Sodium tetraborate, commonly known as borax, is a white crystalline powder that comes from natural mineral deposits found in dried lake beds, particularly in places like California's Mojave Desert and parts of Turkey. It forms when ancient lakes evaporate, leaving behind concentrated mineral deposits that can be mined and purified. The refined product is then processed into a consistent, food-grade powder through washing and recrystallization. This additive functions as both a preservative and a buffering agent in food products. As a preservative, it helps prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, while as a buffering agent, it helps maintain the proper pH level (acidity) in foods to keep them stable and safe. However, its use in food is extremely limited and highly regulated, appearing mainly in certain specialty imported products or traditional foods from specific regions. Sodium tetraborate is mineral-based and technically suitable for vegetarians and vegans, but its use in food has become increasingly restricted due to safety concerns. Many countries, including those in the European Union and the United States, have banned or severely limited its use in food products. Where it is still permitted, it's only allowed in very specific applications and in tiny amounts under strict regulatory oversight.