E numbers are codes for substances that are permitted to be used as food additives within the European Union. Commonly found on food labels, their safety assessment and approval are the responsibility of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
A unified list of food additives, including food coloring, was first agreed upon in 1962. In 1964, the directives for preservatives were added, in 1970 for antioxidants, and in 1974 for emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, and gelling agents.
E100–E199 (colors)
E200–E299 (preservatives)
E300–E399 (antioxidants, acidity regulators)
E400–E499 (thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers)
E500–E599 (acidity regulators, anti-caking agents)
E600–E699 (flavour enhancer)
E700–E799 (antibiotics)
E900–E999 (glazing agents and sweeteners)
E1000–E1599 (additional chemicals)
Source: European Food Safety Authority