E401 · Sodium alginate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E401?
Sodium alginate is the sodium salt of alginic acid, extracted from brown seaweed and used in food as a thickener, gelling agent, and stabilizer. It is well known for its use in spherification techniques in modern cuisine and in stabilizing ice cream and sauces. It is also used in wound dressings and drug-delivery capsules, and is considered safe for consumption as a form of soluble fiber.
Also appears on labels as: E401, E 401, E-401, INS 401, Sodium alginate, Alginate sodium, Alginic acid sodium salt, Sodium algin, Algin, Sodium alginate gum, Alginate, Seaweed alginate.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Very high intakes of any added fiber, including alginate, may cause bloating or digestive discomfort.
Research behind the verdict
- Sodium Alginate: Marine-derived Stabilizer Safety Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources, EFSA Journal - Hydrocolloids Assessment (2022). A detailed safety evaluation of sodium alginate (E401) examining its use as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and gelling agent derived from brown seaweed. The research confirmed that sodium alginate provides excellent safety margins while offering beneficial functional properties in food applications. The study noted its natural marine origin and its effectiveness in creating gels and improving texture. The assessment supports its widespread use in food products with established safety protocols.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E401 safe?
Our overall verdict for E401 (Sodium alginate) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E401 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium alginate — 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 E401 and why is it used?
Sodium alginate is the sodium salt of alginic acid, extracted from brown seaweed and used in food as a thickener, gelling agent, and stabilizer. It is well known for its use in spherification techniques in modern cuisine and in stabilizing ice cream and sauces. It is also used in wound dressings and drug-delivery capsules, and is considered safe for consumption as a form of soluble fiber.
Does E401 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium alginate.
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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.