E472f: Mixed Acetic and Tartaric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides
Main role: emulsifying
Also listed as: mixed acetic and tartaric esters, MATEM
What is E472f (Mixed Acetic and Tartaric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides)?
E472f covers mixed acetic- and tartaric-acid ester preparations of mono- and diglycerides. It has its own composition requirements within the E472 emulsifier family.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is emulsifying. Emulsifiers help ingredients mix or remain distributed. The recipe determines whether that means dispersing fat, improving dough handling, or controlling a coating. Their presence alone does not describe the food’s overall nutritional quality.
Food and formulation examples
- Bakery ingredient blends
- Dough preparations
- Fat-containing foods
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E472f, E 472f, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include mixed acetic and tartaric esters, MATEM. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The suffix f distinguishes a specified mixture from DATEM E472e. An ingredient list that only says emulsifier may need a more detailed product specification for exact identification.
Is E472f safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E472f as Mixed acetic and tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.