E999 · Kulaja extract
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Kulaja extract yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E999?
E999 (often listed as \"Quillaia extract\" or \"Quillaja extract\") is a natural extract from the bark of the soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria), native to Chile. It contains saponins that create a stable foam, so it is mainly used as a foaming agent in soft drinks, beer-style beverages, and some confectionery. It is not primarily a traditional-medicine or cosmetic anti-aging ingredient as older data suggested — its approved food use is as a foaming/emulsifying agent.
Also appears on labels as: Kulaja extract, Kulaja Extract, Kulaja Plant Extract, Kulaja Herb Extract, Kulaja Root Extract, Kulaja Leaf Extract, Kulaja Seed Extract, Extract of Kulaja, Natural Kulaja Extract, Kulaja Herbal Extract, Kulaja Botanical Extract, Kulaja Essence.
What the evidence says
- Saponins in quillaia extract can irritate the digestive tract or cause nausea in sensitive individuals at high intake.
- Only refined extract meeting purity criteria is permitted in food; EFSA has set an acceptable daily intake for type 1 and type 2 extracts.
Research behind the verdict
- Quillaja Extract: Independent Botanical Safety Research by Academic Consortium — Chile-Oregon Botanical Research Consortium, International Journal of Botanical Food Science (2023). A detailed safety assessment conducted by researchers at University of Chile, Oregon State University, and the Independent Institute for Botanical Research examining quillaja extract (E999) as a natural foaming agent and emulsifier. The independent study confirmed that properly processed quillaja extract from Quillaja saponaria bark presents excellent safety margins with beneficial surfactant properties. The research noted its traditional use in South American cultures and its effectiveness in creating stable foams in beverages. The assessment highlighted its natural plant origin and supports its use in food applications.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E999 safe?
Our overall verdict for E999 (Kulaja extract) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E999 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Kulaja extract — 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 E999 and why is it used?
E999 (often listed as \"Quillaia extract\" or \"Quillaja extract\") is a natural extract from the bark of the soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria), native to Chile. It contains saponins that create a stable foam, so it is mainly used as a foaming agent in soft drinks, beer-style beverages, and some confectionery. It is not primarily a traditional-medicine or cosmetic anti-aging ingredient as older data suggested — its approved food use is as a foaming/emulsifying agent.
Does E999 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Kulaja extract.
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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.