E-number  · E101

E101 — Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Yellow vitamin used as a colourant. Today almost always microbial-fermented; always vegan in modern production.

The entry Reference notes, kept short.

What it is

E101 is riboflavin (vitamin B2), a yellow-orange water-soluble vitamin. Modern food-grade riboflavin is produced by microbial fermentation of plant sugars.

Why it matters

Used as both a colour and a nutritional supplement in cereals, baby foods, sauces, soft drinks, and processed cheese alternatives.

What to do

Always vegan in modern production. The closely-related E101a (riboflavin 5'-phosphate) is also vegan.

Sources Where the entry is drawn from.
  • Vegan Society additives database
  • EU Food Information Regulation 1169/2011