What is E1440?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Hydroxypropyl Starch
Modified Starches ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E1440 is Hydroxypropyl Starch โ€” chemically modified plant starch, used as a modified starche to help thicken and stabilise foods across heating, freezing and storage.

What is E1440 (Hydroxypropyl Starch)?

E1440 is the E-number for hydroxypropyl starch, one of the modified starches group of food additives (E1400โ€“E1499). Additives in this group thicken and stabilise foods across heating, freezing and storage. Chemically modified plant starch. Like every E-number, E1440 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union โ€” 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 E1440 in detail below.

Where is E1440 found?

E1440 is typically used in instant soups, sauces, ready meals, yoghurts and baby foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E1440) or by its full name, hydroxypropyl starch. Common foods that may contain E1440 include:

Full guide: foods containing E1440 and how to spot it on labels โ†’

Is E1440 safe?

E1440 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 E1440.

EFSA status: Authorised in the EU โ€” no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority

Is E1440 vegan?

E1440 is vegan. Chemically modified plant starch, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E1440 โ†’

Is E1440 halal?

E1440 is halal. Chemically modified plant starch, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E1440 โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E1440 in food?

E1440 is Hydroxypropyl Starch โ€” chemically modified plant starch, used as a modified starche to help thicken and stabilise foods across heating, freezing and storage.

Is E1440 safe to eat?

Yes. E1440 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E1440 vegan?

E1440 is vegan. Chemically modified plant starch, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E1440 halal?

E1440 is halal. Chemically modified plant starch, 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).

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