What is E404?
E404 is Calcium Alginate — the calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E404 (Calcium Alginate)?
E404 is the E-number for calcium alginate, one of the thickeners & gelling agents group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group thicken foods and create gels for the right texture. The calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed. Like every E-number, E404 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 E404 in detail below.
Where is E404 found?
E404 is typically used in sauces, soups, desserts, jams, plant milks and dairy alternatives. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E404) or by its full name, calcium alginate. Common foods that may contain E404 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E404 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E404 safe?
E404 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 E404.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E404 vegan?
E404 is vegan. The calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E404 →Is E404 halal?
E404 is halal. The calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E404 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E404 in food?
E404 is Calcium Alginate — the calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E404 safe to eat?
Yes. E404 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E404 vegan?
E404 is vegan. The calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E404 halal?
E404 is halal. The calcium salt of alginic acid from seaweed, 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).