E405 · Propane-1,2-diol alginate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E405?
Propane-1,2-diol alginate, also known as propylene glycol alginate (PGA), is a modified form of alginic acid used in food as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickener, notably to stabilize foam in beer and to improve texture in salad dressings and low-fat foods. Unlike other alginates, its modification makes it more acid-tolerant, useful in acidic beverages. It is considered safe at approved use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Propane-1,2-diol alginate, Propylene glycol alginate, PGA, E405, E 405, E-405, Propane-1,2-diol ester of alginic acid, Propylene glycol ester of alginic acid, Food grade propylene glycol alginate, Propane-1,2-diol alginate thickener, Alginic acid propylene glycol ester, INS 405.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E405 safe?
Our overall verdict for E405 (Propane-1,2-diol 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 E405 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Propane-1,2-diol 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 E405 and why is it used?
Propane-1,2-diol alginate, also known as propylene glycol alginate (PGA), is a modified form of alginic acid used in food as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickener, notably to stabilize foam in beer and to improve texture in salad dressings and low-fat foods. Unlike other alginates, its modification makes it more acid-tolerant, useful in acidic beverages. It is considered safe at approved use levels.
Does E405 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Propane-1,2-diol 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.