What is E417?
E417 is Tara Gum — ground from the seeds of the tara tree, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E417 (Tara Gum)?
E417 is the E-number for tara 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. Ground from the seeds of the tara tree. Like every E-number, E417 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 E417 in detail below.
Where is E417 found?
E417 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 (E417) or by its full name, tara gum. Common foods that may contain E417 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E417 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E417 safe?
E417 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 E417.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E417 vegan?
E417 is vegan. Ground from the seeds of the tara tree, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E417 →Is E417 halal?
E417 is halal. Ground from the seeds of the tara tree, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E417 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E417 in food?
E417 is Tara Gum — ground from the seeds of the tara tree, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E417 safe to eat?
Yes. E417 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E417 vegan?
E417 is vegan. Ground from the seeds of the tara tree, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E417 halal?
E417 is halal. Ground from the seeds of the tara tree, 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).