Is Gellan Gum Safe?
Gellan Gum is the additive E418 — produced by bacterial fermentation, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is Gellan Gum safe to eat?
E418 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 E418.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Gellan Gum?
E418 is the E-number for gellan gum, one of the thickeners & gelling agents group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group thicken foods and create gels for the right texture. Produced by bacterial fermentation. Like every E-number, E418 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E418 in detail below.
What foods contain Gellan Gum?
E418 (Gellan Gum) is typically found in:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gellan Gum bad for you?
Yes. E418 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Gellan Gum vegan?
E418 is vegan. Produced by bacterial fermentation, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Gellan Gum halal?
E418 is halal. Produced by bacterial fermentation, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E418 (Gellan Gum) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).