What is E1204?
E1204 is Pullulan — produced by fungal fermentation of starch, used as a glazing agents & waxe to help give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer.
What is E1204 (Pullulan)?
E1204 is the E-number for pullulan, one of the glazing agents & waxes group of food additives (E900–E999). Additives in this group give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer. Produced by fungal fermentation of starch. Like every E-number, E1204 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 E1204 in detail below.
Where is E1204 found?
E1204 is typically used in sweets, chocolate, chewing gum, fresh fruit coatings and baked goods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E1204) or by its full name, pullulan. Common foods that may contain E1204 include:
- Sweets
- Chocolate
- Chewing gum
- Fresh fruit coatings and baked goods
Full guide: foods containing E1204 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E1204 safe?
E1204 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 E1204.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E1204 vegan?
E1204 is vegan. Produced by fungal fermentation of starch, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E1204 →Is E1204 halal?
E1204 is halal. Produced by fungal fermentation of starch, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E1204 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E1204 in food?
E1204 is Pullulan — produced by fungal fermentation of starch, used as a glazing agents & waxe to help give foods a shiny surface coating or protective layer.
Is E1204 safe to eat?
Yes. E1204 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E1204 vegan?
E1204 is vegan. Produced by fungal fermentation of starch, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E1204 halal?
E1204 is halal. Produced by fungal fermentation of starch, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).