What is E469?
E469 is Enzymatically Hydrolysed Cellulose Gum — enzyme-treated plant cellulose, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
What is E469 (Enzymatically Hydrolysed Cellulose Gum)?
E469 is the E-number for enzymatically hydrolysed cellulose gum, 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. Enzyme-treated plant cellulose. Like every E-number, E469 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 E469 in detail below.
Where is E469 found?
E469 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 (E469) or by its full name, enzymatically hydrolysed cellulose gum. Common foods that may contain E469 include:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Full guide: foods containing E469 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E469 safe?
E469 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 E469.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E469 vegan?
E469 is vegan. Enzyme-treated plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E469 →Is E469 halal?
E469 is halal. Enzyme-treated plant cellulose, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E469 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E469 in food?
E469 is Enzymatically Hydrolysed Cellulose Gum — enzyme-treated plant cellulose, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is E469 safe to eat?
Yes. E469 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E469 vegan?
E469 is vegan. Enzyme-treated plant cellulose, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E469 halal?
E469 is halal. Enzyme-treated 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
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).