E415 · Xanthan gum
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E415?
Xanthan gum is a fermentation-derived polysaccharide produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It improves texture in sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, and is especially valued in gluten-free baking for replicating the binding properties of gluten.
Also appears on labels as: Xanthan gum, E415, E 415, E-415, Xanthomonas gum, Corn sugar gum, Polysaccharide gum, Xanthan biopolymer, Food thickener E415, Xanthan stabilizer, Gomme xanthane, Goma xantana.
What the evidence says
- Can cause gas, bloating, or a laxative effect at high intakes.
- Powder should be mixed thoroughly into liquid before consumption; inhaling dry xanthan gum powder or swallowing unhydrated gum can pose a choking/inhalation risk (documented in a small number of hospital reports).
- Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FDA and approved by EFSA at typical food-use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Xanthan Gum: Microbial Polysaccharide Safety and Functional Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources, EFSA Journal - Microbial Polysaccharides Assessment (2017). A comprehensive evaluation of xanthan gum (E415) examining its safety profile as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier produced by bacterial fermentation. The research confirmed that xanthan gum provides excellent safety margins with unique rheological properties that make it highly effective in food applications. The study noted its production through controlled fermentation of Xanthomonas campestris and its exceptional stability across various pH and temperature conditions. The assessment highlighted its versatility and supports its widespread use in food products.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E415 safe?
Our overall verdict for E415 (Xanthan gum) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E415 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Xanthan gum — 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 E415 and why is it used?
Xanthan gum is a fermentation-derived polysaccharide produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It improves texture in sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, and is especially valued in gluten-free baking for replicating the binding properties of gluten.
Does E415 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Xanthan gum, though some people report sensitivity (May be produced using corn, soy, wheat, or dairy-derived fermentation substrates; residual protein is typically negligible but check labeling if highly sensitive.).
Watch E415
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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.