Is Locust Bean Gum Safe?
Locust Bean Gum is the additive E410 — ground from the seeds of the carob tree, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is Locust Bean Gum safe to eat?
E410 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 E410.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Locust Bean Gum?
E410 is the E-number for locust bean 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. Ground from the seeds of the carob tree. Like every E-number, E410 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 E410 in detail below.
What foods contain Locust Bean Gum?
E410 (Locust Bean Gum) is typically found in:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Locust Bean Gum bad for you?
Yes. E410 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Locust Bean Gum vegan?
E410 is vegan. Ground from the seeds of the carob tree, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Locust Bean Gum halal?
E410 is halal. Ground from the seeds of the carob tree, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E410 (Locust Bean Gum) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).