Ingredient · E386

Disodium EDTA

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add disodium EDTA to foods to prevent spoilage and maintain color and flavor …

What is Disodium EDTA?

Disodium EDTA is a synthetic compound that acts as a chelating agent. It is made through a chemical process. It helps to bind metal ions, preventing them from reacting with other ingredients.

Is Disodium EDTA vegan?

Disodium EDTA is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Disodium EDTA gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Disodium EDTA a major allergen?

Disodium EDTA is a synthetic compound and is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens.

What is Disodium EDTA used for?

Manufacturers add disodium EDTA to foods to prevent spoilage and maintain color and flavor by binding to metal ions that can cause oxidation.

Is Disodium EDTA safe?

Disodium EDTA is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add disodium EDTA to foods to prevent spoilage and maintain color and flavor by binding to metal ions that can cause oxidation. It is commonly found in salad dressings, mayonnaise, canned vegetables, and canned beans.

Health notes

Disodium EDTA is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is approved as a food additive in the US. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated disodium EDTA. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Some studies have explored its potential health effects, but more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Allergen info

Disodium EDTA is a synthetic compound and is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Disodium EDTA

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.