E425(I) · Konjac gum
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E425(I)?
Konjac gum (glucomannan) is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the root of the konjac plant, used as a gelling and thickening agent in foods such as konjac noodles ('shirataki'), jellies, and low-calorie products. It is also sold as a weight-management supplement because it absorbs water and expands in the stomach, though supplement doses are much higher than food-additive levels.
Also appears on labels as: Konjac gum, Konjac glucomannan, Konjac flour, Konjac powder, Konjac mannan, Konjac root gum, E425, E 425, E-425, E425i, E 425i, E-425i.
What the evidence says
- Choking and esophageal or intestinal blockage have been reported, particularly with konjac jelly candies/cups that swell in the throat — several countries restrict or ban raw konjac candy for this reason.
- Should always be consumed with adequate liquid; not recommended for young children or people with swallowing difficulties.
- Considered safe at regulated food-additive levels by EFSA and FDA when properly formulated.
Frequently asked questions
Is E425(I) safe?
Our overall verdict for E425(I) (Konjac gum) 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 E425(I) vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Konjac 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 E425(I) and why is it used?
Konjac gum (glucomannan) is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the root of the konjac plant, used as a gelling and thickening agent in foods such as konjac noodles ('shirataki'), jellies, and low-calorie products. It is also sold as a weight-management supplement because it absorbs water and expands in the stomach, though supplement doses are much higher than food-additive levels.
Does E425(I) contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Konjac gum.
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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.