E943a: Butane
Main role: food propellant
Also listed as: n-butane, normal butane
What is E943a (Butane)?
Butane is a gas with specified propellant uses in food systems. Its role is to deliver a preparation from suitable equipment or packaging, subject to the authorized application.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is food propellant. A carrier helps incorporate another ingredient, while a processing ingredient may support a manufacturing step or coating. The final declaration and exposure depend on the application and the labeling rules in the relevant market.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified food aerosol propellants
- Authorized dispensing systems
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 E943a, E 943a, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include n-butane, normal butane. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A food propellant specification does not make lighter fuel appropriate for cooking sprays. Use products supplied for the particular food application and follow their handling instructions.
Is E943a 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 E943a as Butane. 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.