What is E402? Potassium Alginate Explained
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E402 is Potassium Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
What is E402 (Potassium Alginate)?
E402 is Potassium 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, E402 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 E402 found?
E402 (Potassium 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
Is E402 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E402 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Potassium Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Potassium Alginate — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E402. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E402
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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E402 FAQs
What is E402 in food?
E402 is Potassium Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
Is E402 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E402 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Potassium Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E402 vegan?
E402 (Potassium Alginate) is vegan. It is derived from seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E402 halal?
E402 (Potassium 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