What is E999?
E999 is Quillaia Extract — extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, used as a stabiliser to help keep food texture consistent and stop ingredients separating.
What is E999 (Quillaia Extract)?
E999 is the E-number for quillaia extract, one of the stabilisers group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group keep food texture consistent and stop ingredients separating. Extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree. Like every E-number, E999 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 E999 in detail below.
Where is E999 found?
E999 is typically used in desserts, dairy products, sauces, dressings and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E999) or by its full name, quillaia extract. Common foods that may contain E999 include:
- Desserts
- Dairy products
- Sauces
- Dressings and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E999 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E999 safe?
E999 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 E999.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E999 vegan?
E999 is vegan. Extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E999 →Is E999 halal?
E999 is halal. Extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E999 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E999 in food?
E999 is Quillaia Extract — extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, used as a stabiliser to help keep food texture consistent and stop ingredients separating.
Is E999 safe to eat?
Yes. E999 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E999 vegan?
E999 is vegan. Extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E999 halal?
E999 is halal. Extracted from the bark of the soapbark tree, 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).