What is E418?
E418 is Gellan Gum — produced by bacterial fermentation, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E418 (Gellan Gum)?
E418 is the E-number for gellan 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. Produced by bacterial fermentation. Like every E-number, E418 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 E418 in detail below.
Where is E418 found?
E418 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 (E418) or by its full name, gellan gum. Common foods that may contain E418 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E418 and how to spot it on labels →
E418 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Gellan Gum safe?
Is E418 safe?
E418 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 E418.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E418 vegan?
E418 is vegan. Produced by bacterial fermentation, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E418 →Is E418 halal?
E418 is halal. Produced by bacterial fermentation, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E418 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E418 in food?
E418 is Gellan Gum — produced by bacterial fermentation, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E418 safe to eat?
Yes. E418 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E418 vegan?
E418 is vegan. Produced by bacterial fermentation, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E418 halal?
E418 is halal. Produced by bacterial fermentation, 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).