What is E460?
E460 is Cellulose — made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E460 (Cellulose)?
E460 is the E-number for cellulose, 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. Made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp. Like every E-number, E460 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 E460 in detail below.
Where is E460 found?
E460 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 (E460) or by its full name, cellulose. Common foods that may contain E460 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E460 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E460 safe?
E460 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 E460.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E460 vegan?
E460 is vegan. Made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E460 →Is E460 halal?
E460 is halal. Made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E460 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E460 in food?
E460 is Cellulose — made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E460 safe to eat?
Yes. E460 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E460 vegan?
E460 is vegan. Made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E460 halal?
E460 is halal. Made from plant fibre, usually wood pulp, 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).