What is E401? Sodium Alginate Explained
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E401 is Sodium Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
What is E401 (Sodium Alginate)?
E401 is Sodium Alginate, a food additive classified as a thickeners & gelling agent that thicken and gel foods. A thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts. You'll find it in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E401 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E401 found?
E401 (Sodium Alginate) is found in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams, ready meals, salad dressings, ice cream.
- soups and gravies
- yoghurts
- jams
- ready meals
- salad dressings
- ice cream
Also known as: Sodium Alginate
Is E401 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E401 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sodium Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Sodium Alginate — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E401. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E401
organic vegan seaweed snacks
MORiSH Crispy Seaweed Thins
Want a snack where you can read every ingredient? MORiSH crispy seaweed thins are organic, vegan and gluten-free — no hidden E-numbers.
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E401 FAQs
What is E401 in food?
E401 is Sodium Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
Is E401 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E401 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sodium Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E401 vegan?
E401 (Sodium Alginate) is vegan. It is derived from seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E401 halal?
E401 (Sodium Alginate) is halal. It is derived from seaweed, which involves no haram sources.
Related Thickeners & Gelling Agents additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA