Foods Containing E999 (Quillaia Extract)
E999 (Quillaia Extract) is extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, used as a stabiliser to help keep food texture consistent and stop ingredients separating. Here's where you're most likely to find it on food labels.
Common foods that contain E999
E999 is used across desserts, dairy products, sauces, dressings and processed foods. The foods where it appears most often include:
- Desserts
- Dairy products
- Sauces
- Dressings and processed foods
Exact usage varies by brand and recipe — the only way to know for certain whether a specific product contains E999 is to check its ingredients list, where it must be declared by law, either as "E999" or as "Quillaia Extract".
How to spot E999 on a label
In the UK and EU, additives must appear in the ingredients list with their function and either their E-number or full name — for example "stabilisers: E999" or "stabilisers: quillaia extract". In the US the E-number system isn't used, so look for the full name "Quillaia Extract" instead.
Should you avoid foods containing E999?
E999 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E999.
Full guide to E999: safety, vegan and halal status →
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Want to avoid E999?
Additive-free eating
Cookbooks and guides for cooking without additives.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).