Sodium tetraborate
Learn what Sodium tetraborate (E285) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sodium tetraborate?
A food additive used as a buffering agent to control acidity.
Why is Sodium tetraborate added to food?
Sodium tetraborate (E285) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Sturgeon roe (caviar).
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.1 mg/kg body weight.
Is Sodium tetraborate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Sodium tetraborate
- Sturgeon roe (caviar)
See the full list of foods that contain Sodium tetraborate →
How to spot Sodium tetraborate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E285
- Sodium tetraborate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodlum tetraborate
- sodium tetrabordte
- sodium tetrdborate
- sodium tetraborate
- $odium tetraborate
Better alternatives
• May cause skin and eye irritation upon direct contact. • Not recommended for individuals with kidney conditions, as it may negatively affect kidney function. • Consumption or inhalation in large quantities may cause digestive disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. • Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential adverse effects on fetal development.
Also known as
- sodlum tetraborate
- sodium tetrabordte
- sodium tetrdborate
- sodium tetraborate
- $odium tetraborate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium tetraborate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E285 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium tetraborate
- Is Sodium tetraborate safe to eat?
- Sodium tetraborate has a harm level of 2 out of 3. Moderate concern.
- Is Sodium tetraborate banned anywhere?
- Sodium tetraborate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Sodium tetraborate on a food label?
- Look for E285, Sodium tetraborate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodlum tetraborate, sodium tetrabordte, sodium tetrdborate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.