What is E465?
E465 is Ethyl 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 E465 (Ethyl Methyl Cellulose)?
E465 is the E-number for ethyl 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, E465 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 E465 in detail below.
Where is E465 found?
E465 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 (E465) or by its full name, ethyl methyl cellulose. Common foods that may contain E465 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E465 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E465 safe?
E465 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 E465.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E465 vegan?
E465 is vegan. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E465 →Is E465 halal?
E465 is halal. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E465 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E465 in food?
E465 is Ethyl Methyl Cellulose — chemically modified plant cellulose, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E465 safe to eat?
Yes. E465 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E465 vegan?
E465 is vegan. Chemically modified plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E465 halal?
E465 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).