What is E284?
E284 is Boric acid, a food additive used as a preservative. Mineral. Only allowed in sturgeon caviar.
Also written as: INS 284, E-284, E 284. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E284 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E284 (Boric acid) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal Mineral. Only allowed in sturgeon caviar.
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E284 halal?
E284 (Boric acid) is halal. Mineral. Only allowed in sturgeon caviar.
What is E284 made from?
Mineral salt.
What is E284 used for?
E284 is used as a preservative, typically in soft drinks, bread, cured meats, dried fruit and sauces.
What should I do if a product contains E284?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E284 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E284 (Boric acid) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.