Is Modified Starch Safe?
Modified Starch is the additive E1422 — chemically modified plant starch, used as a modified starche to help thicken and stabilise foods across heating, freezing and storage.
Is Modified Starch safe to eat?
E1422 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 E1422.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Modified Starch?
E1422 is the E-number for acetylated distarch adipate, one of the modified starches group of food additives (E1400–E1499). Additives in this group thicken and stabilise foods across heating, freezing and storage. Chemically modified plant starch. Like every E-number, E1422 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 E1422 in detail below.
What foods contain Modified Starch?
E1422 (Modified Starch) is typically found in:
- Instant soups
- Sauces
- Ready meals
- Yoghurts and baby foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Modified Starch bad for you?
Yes. E1422 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Modified Starch vegan?
E1422 is vegan. Chemically modified plant starch, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Modified Starch halal?
E1422 is halal. Chemically modified plant starch, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E1422 (Acetylated Distarch Adipate) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).