E418: Gellan gum

What is E418?

Gellan gum, labelled E418, is a polysaccharide made up of repeating sugar units. It can form gels ranging from firm and brittle to soft and elastic, and it is effective in very small amounts.

Origin and production

It is produced by fermentation using the bacterium Sphingomonas elodea, after which the gum is recovered from the fermentation broth, purified and dried.

Why is it used?

In plant-based drinks such as almond, oat and soy drinks, gellan gum keeps added calcium and other particles suspended so the product does not separate. It is also used in protein shakes, juices, desserts, jellies and confectionery.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Gellan gum is produced by microbial fermentation and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is often used as a plant-based gelatin replacement and is not generally a halal or kosher concern.

Safety and regulation

Gellan gum is authorised as a food additive in the EU and was re-evaluated by EFSA, which concluded that a numerical acceptable daily intake was not necessary.

Common in