E459 · Beta-cyclodextrin
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E459?
Beta-cyclodextrin is a ring-shaped molecule made from glucose units, used in food to encapsulate and stabilize flavors, vitamins, and other sensitive ingredients, improving their solubility and shelf life. It passes through the digestive tract largely intact and is considered safe at approved use levels. It is also used in pharmaceuticals to help deliver poorly soluble drugs.
Also appears on labels as: Beta-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, Cyclodextrin beta, Food grade beta-cyclodextrin, E459, E 459, E-459, INS 459, Cyclodextrin (β form), Additivo alimentare E459, Additif alimentaire E459, Lebensmittelzusatzstoff E459.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels; EFSA has established an acceptable daily intake.
- Very high intakes may cause mild digestive effects such as gas or bloating due to limited digestibility.
Research behind the verdict
- Beta-Cyclodextrin Safety Evaluation: Encapsulation and Stabilization Properties — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources, EFSA Journal - Cyclodextrin Assessment (2022). A detailed safety assessment of beta-cyclodextrin (E459) examining its use as an encapsulating agent and stabilizer in food products. The research confirmed that beta-cyclodextrin, derived from starch through enzymatic processes, presents excellent safety margins when used according to approved guidelines. The study noted its unique ability to form inclusion complexes with various compounds, improving stability and bioavailability. The assessment supports its continued use in food applications with established safety protocols.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E459 safe?
Our overall verdict for E459 (Beta-cyclodextrin) 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 E459 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Beta-cyclodextrin — 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 E459 and why is it used?
Beta-cyclodextrin is a ring-shaped molecule made from glucose units, used in food to encapsulate and stabilize flavors, vitamins, and other sensitive ingredients, improving their solubility and shelf life. It passes through the digestive tract largely intact and is considered safe at approved use levels. It is also used in pharmaceuticals to help deliver poorly soluble drugs.
Does E459 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Beta-cyclodextrin.
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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.