What is E426? Soybean Hemicellulose Explained
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E426 is Soybean Hemicellulose — a thickener (soya) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
What is E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose)?
E426 is Soybean Hemicellulose, a food additive classified as a thickeners & gelling agent that thicken and gel foods. A thickener (soya) 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, E426 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 E426 found?
E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose) 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 E426 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E426 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Soybean Hemicellulose to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Soybean Hemicellulose — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E426. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Related to E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
Recipes using whole, unprocessed ingredients with no E-numbers.
Whole Food Cooking Guide
Guides to cooking from scratch and reducing processed food intake.
E426 FAQs
What is E426 in food?
E426 is Soybean Hemicellulose — a thickener (soya) used in soups and gravies, yoghurts.
Is E426 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E426 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Soybean Hemicellulose to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E426 vegan?
E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose) is vegan. It is derived from soya, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E426 halal?
E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose) is halal. It is derived from soya, 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