E243

What is E243?

Ethyl lauroyl arginate (E243) is an antimicrobial preservative used in selected food applications. Goodnessly rates it Caution as a prompt to notice specialised preservation systems.

Quick answer

E243 is a substance used to help control microorganisms in specified foods. Its use is limited by food category, maximum level and purity requirements.

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Read the FAQ →

What is Ethyl lauroyl arginate?

E243 is a substance used to help control microorganisms in specified foods. Its use is limited by food category, maximum level and purity requirements.

What's it used for?

  • Supporting preservation
  • Helping control microorganisms in selected foods
  • Working alongside packaging, acidity and other controls

Where you'll find E243 on the shelf

Where authorised, it is most relevant to processed foods, prepared products and preservation systems with a defined use level.

Processed foods
Prepared products
Preservation systems
Specialised formulations
Preservative (243)

Is E243 safe? What the regulators say

E243 has specific, not blanket, permissions. The finished food category and maximum level determine whether its use is allowed.

Region Status What this means
AU/NZ Australia & New Zealand (FSANZ) Permitted with conditions FSANZ lists ethyl lauroyl arginate as additive 243 in Schedule 15 with category-specific permissions.
EU European Union (EFSA) Authorised with conditions E243 is included in the EU Union list for specified categories and maximum levels.
US United States (FDA) Permitted for specified uses FDA regulations provide a specified food-use basis for ethyl lauroyl arginate; formulation and use-level conditions apply.

Caution is a preference to notice specialised preservatives, not a claim that authorised E243 use causes harm.

📰 Recent developments Last checked September 2026
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, additive 243.
  • EUR-Lex Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 Union list, E243.
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.822, Ethyl lauroyl arginate.

This section is checked periodically rather than continuously — if you're reading this well after the date above, it's worth confirming nothing has changed before citing it.

Who might want to limit or avoid it

  • People who prefer shorter preservative systems
  • People comparing highly formulated foods
  • People following individual dietary advice

Goodnessly rates E243 Caution as a label-reading prompt while recognising its regulated, category-specific uses.

How to spot it on a label

Look for:

  • Ethyl lauroyl arginate
  • 243 or E243
  • Preservative (243)
  • Lauramide arginine ethyl ester

Look for the full chemical name or the preservative class and number.

Related additives

200 Sorbic acid 202 Potassium sorbate 210 Benzoic acid 234 Nisin

Frequently asked questions

What is E243?

E243 is ethyl lauroyl arginate, a preservative used in specified food applications.

Is E243 permitted?

E243 is permitted with conditions in Australia/New Zealand, the EU and the US for specified uses.

Why is E243 rated Caution?

Goodnessly uses Caution as a prompt to notice specialised preservative systems.

How does Goodnessly rate E243?

Goodnessly rates E243 (ethyl lauroyl arginate) as Caution.

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