What is E416?
E416 is Karaya Gum — a natural tree gum, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E416 (Karaya Gum)?
E416 is the E-number for karaya gum, 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. A natural tree gum. Like every E-number, E416 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 E416 in detail below.
Where is E416 found?
E416 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 (E416) or by its full name, karaya gum. Common foods that may contain E416 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E416 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E416 safe?
E416 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 E416.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E416 vegan?
E416 is vegan. A natural tree gum, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E416 →Is E416 halal?
E416 is halal. A natural tree gum, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E416 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E416 in food?
E416 is Karaya Gum — a natural tree gum, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E416 safe to eat?
Yes. E416 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E416 vegan?
E416 is vegan. A natural tree gum, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E416 halal?
E416 is halal. A natural tree gum, 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).