E626: Guanylic Acid
Main role: flavor enhancement
Also listed as: guanosine monophosphate, GMP
What is E626 (Guanylic Acid)?
Guanylic acid is a nucleotide used to enhance savory flavor. It belongs to a group of related guanylate ingredients that can work with glutamates in seasoning systems.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is flavor enhancement. Flavor enhancement changes how a recipe tastes. It does not replace the food’s protein, vegetables, or other nutrients. Salt and other seasonings may still be present, so compare the complete label.
Food and formulation examples
- Savory seasoning blends
- Soups
- Sauces
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 E626, E 626, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include guanosine monophosphate, GMP. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A nucleotide enhancer can have a strong recipe effect in small quantities. Its presence does not reveal how much glutamate or salt is also in the product.
Is E626 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 E626 as Guanylic acid. 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.