What is E426?
E426 is Soybean Hemicellulose — extracted from soya beans, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E426 (Soybean Hemicellulose)?
E426 is the E-number for soybean hemicellulose, 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. Extracted from soya beans. Like every E-number, E426 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 E426 in detail below.
Where is E426 found?
E426 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 (E426) or by its full name, soybean hemicellulose. Common foods that may contain E426 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E426 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E426 safe?
E426 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 E426.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E426 vegan?
E426 is vegan. Extracted from soya beans, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E426 →Is E426 halal?
E426 is halal. Extracted from soya beans, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E426 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E426 in food?
E426 is Soybean Hemicellulose — extracted from soya beans, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E426 safe to eat?
Yes. E426 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E426 vegan?
E426 is vegan. Extracted from soya beans, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E426 halal?
E426 is halal. Extracted from soya beans, 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).