Is Konjac Safe?
Konjac is the additive E425 — ground from the konjac root, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is Konjac safe to eat?
E425 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 E425.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Konjac?
E425 is the E-number for konjac, 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. Ground from the konjac root. Like every E-number, E425 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 E425 in detail below.
What foods contain Konjac?
E425 (Konjac) is typically found in:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Konjac bad for you?
Yes. E425 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Konjac vegan?
E425 is vegan. Ground from the konjac root, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Konjac halal?
E425 is halal. Ground from the konjac root, with no haram source involved.
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).