E400
Alginic acid
Also known as: Alginate
Components / composition
Polysaccharide from brown seaweed (alginates); linear copolymers of mannuronic and guluronic acid.
Common usage in food
Thickener and gelling agent in ice cream, desserts, and gluten-free baking.
Effects on human health
Not digested; acts as soluble fiber. May reduce bioavailability of some minerals at high intake.
Risks & considerations
Generally recognized as safe. Swelling in throat if consumed as dry powder without liquid (industrial handling caution).
Regulatory approval (EU)
Permitted in EU Annex II.
US regulatory status (FDA)
Alginic acid and its salts are permitted in the U.S. as food additives derived from brown seaweed. They are used as thickeners and gelling agents in ice cream and gluten-free products. FDA regulates alginates under direct food additive provisions in Part 184.
Permitted amounts / regulatory limits (EU)
Quantum satis or category limits per Annex II.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not specified.