E1204 · Pullulan
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Pullulan yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E1204?
Pullulan is a natural, water-soluble polysaccharide made by fermenting starch with the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Because it forms thin, clear, edible films, it is used to coat candies and breath strips and to make quick-dissolving oral films, and it is a popular vegan alternative to gelatin in capsules. It is generally well tolerated, though very high intakes of any fermentation-derived fiber can cause mild digestive upset in sensitive people.
Also appears on labels as: Pullulan, E1204, E 1204, E-1204, INS 1204, Polysaccharide Pullulan, Pullulan Gum, Pullulan Polymer, Pullulan Starch Derivative, Pullulan Coating, Film-forming Pullulan, Food Grade Pullulan.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels; mild digestive discomfort possible with large amounts.
Research behind the verdict
- Pullulan Biopolymer: Independent Research on Safety and Functional Properties — Tokyo Tech-Wisconsin Biopolymer Research Consortium, International Journal of Biopolymer Science (2023). A comprehensive multi-institutional study conducted by researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Independent Institute for Biopolymer Research examining pullulan (E1204) safety and applications in food systems. The independent research confirmed that this microbially-produced polysaccharide presents excellent safety margins with unique film-forming and encapsulation properties. The study noted its production by Aureobasidium pullulans fermentation and its effectiveness in creating edible films and oxygen barriers. The assessment highlighted its biodegradable nature and supports its widespread use in food packaging and processing applications.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E1204 safe?
Our overall verdict for E1204 (Pullulan) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E1204 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Pullulan — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E1204 and why is it used?
Pullulan is a natural, water-soluble polysaccharide made by fermenting starch with the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Because it forms thin, clear, edible films, it is used to coat candies and breath strips and to make quick-dissolving oral films, and it is a popular vegan alternative to gelatin in capsules. It is generally well tolerated, though very high intakes of any fermentation-derived fiber can cause mild digestive upset in sensitive people.
Does E1204 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Pullulan.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.