What is E405? Propylene Glycol Alginate Explained
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E405 is Propylene Glycol Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
What is E405 (Propylene Glycol Alginate)?
E405 is Propylene Glycol 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, E405 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 E405 found?
E405 (Propylene Glycol 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 E405 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E405 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Propylene Glycol Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Propylene Glycol Alginate — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E405. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E405
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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E405 FAQs
What is E405 in food?
E405 is Propylene Glycol Alginate — a thickener (seaweed) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
Is E405 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E405 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Propylene Glycol Alginate to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E405 vegan?
E405 (Propylene Glycol Alginate) is vegan. It is derived from seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E405 halal?
E405 (Propylene Glycol 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