Disodium inosinate
Learn what Disodium inosinate (E631) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Disodium inosinate?
A food additive with the role of a flavor enhancer. It is the sodium salt of inosinic acid. For industrial use, it is obtained through bacterial fermentation of sugars or from meat or sardines, meaning it can have either plant or animal origin. Inosinates do not provide the 'umami' taste specific to glutamates, but they have the ability to enhance many natural flavors and tastes, thus reducing the amount of salt required. It is used in the amounts specified by recipes in all types of food products, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Why is Disodium inosinate added to food?
Disodium inosinate (E631) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Permitted quantity: No daily dose limit.
Is Disodium inosinate safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported.
Is Disodium inosinate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Disodium inosinate okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Disodium inosinate
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
See the full list of foods that contain Disodium inosinate →
How to spot Disodium inosinate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E631
- Disodium inosinate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- disodium inoslnate
- di$odium inosinate
- disodium inosindte
- disodium lnosinate
- disodium inosinate
- dlsodium inosinate
- disodium ino$inate
- disodlum inosinate
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of disodium inosinate can lead to gastrointestinal adverse reactions, such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. • People sensitive to food additives, especially glutamates, may experience allergic reactions, including skin rashes and respiratory difficulties. • It may cause electrolyte imbalances, especially increasing sodium levels in the blood (hypernatremia), which can affect kidney and cardiovascular function. • People with kidney conditions should be cautious, as it may contribute to excessive sodium buildup. • Prolonged use in large amounts may affect the body's mineral balance and interfere with the absorption of other nutrients.
Also known as
- disodium inoslnate
- di$odium inosinate
- disodium inosindte
- disodium lnosinate
- disodium inosinate
- dlsodium inosinate
- disodium ino$inate
- disodlum inosinate
Scan products with BioBrief
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Frequently asked questions about Disodium inosinate
- Is Disodium inosinate safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported.
- Is Disodium inosinate banned anywhere?
- Disodium inosinate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Disodium inosinate safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Disodium inosinate on a food label?
- Look for E631, Disodium inosinate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: disodium inoslnate, di$odium inosinate, disodium inosindte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.