What is E461?
E461 is Methyl Cellulose — chemically modified plant cellulose, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E461 (Methyl Cellulose)?
E461 is the E-number for methyl 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. Chemically modified plant cellulose. Like every E-number, E461 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 E461 in detail below.
Where is E461 found?
E461 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 (E461) or by its full name, methyl cellulose. Common foods that may contain E461 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E461 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E461 safe?
E461 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 E461.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E461 vegan?
E461 is vegan. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E461 →Is E461 halal?
E461 is halal. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E461 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E461 in food?
E461 is Methyl Cellulose — chemically modified plant cellulose, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E461 safe to eat?
Yes. E461 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E461 vegan?
E461 is vegan. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E461 halal?
E461 is halal. Chemically modified plant cellulose, 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).