Acetylated starch
Learn what Acetylated starch (E1420) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Acetylated starch?
Food additive used as an anti-caking agent, thickening agent, stabilizer, emulsifier, and carrier for other additives. It is a so-called 'modified starch,' meaning starch that has undergone a specific chemical process aimed at improving and adapting its properties to certain requirements, such as: increased stability at very high or very low temperatures, in acidic or alkaline environments, extending or shortening coagulation or gelling time, the ability to gel at cold temperatures, modifying texture, etc. Modified starch has a higher capacity to absorb water, partially substitute fats, form emulsions, and is used in dairy, meat, egg, fat, cereal-based products, confectionery, bakery, pastry products, canned fruits, vegetables, fish, sauces, spices, concentrated soups, creams, puddings, various desserts, alcoholic and non-alcoholic flavored beverages, etc.
Why is Acetylated starch added to food?
Acetylated starch (E1420) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Confectionery products, bakery, spices, soups, canned goods, puddings, concentrates, alcoholic beverages.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit.
Is Acetylated starch safe?
Low concern
No side effects at the quantities used in foods.
Is Acetylated starch banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Acetylated starch okay for kids?
It is also used in a quantity of 50g/l in weaning foods for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Acetylated starch
- Confectionery products
- bakery
- spices
- soups
- canned goods
- puddings
- concentrates
- alcoholic beverages
How to spot Acetylated starch on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E1420
- Acetylated starch
Common misspellings to watch for:
- acetyldted starch
- acetylated stareh
- aeetylated starch
- dcetylated starch
- acetylated $tarch
- acetylated starch
- acetylated stdrch
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to starch. • Excessive use may lead to digestive discomfort, such as bloating and abdominal cramps. • People with kidney or liver conditions should avoid consumption in large quantities.
Also known as
- acetyldted starch
- acetylated stareh
- aeetylated starch
- dcetylated starch
- acetylated $tarch
- acetylated starch
- acetylated stdrch
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Acetylated starch? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E1420 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Acetylated starch
- Is Acetylated starch safe to eat?
- No side effects at the quantities used in foods.
- Is Acetylated starch banned anywhere?
- Acetylated starch is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Acetylated starch safe for children?
- It is also used in a quantity of 50g/l in weaning foods for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Acetylated starch on a food label?
- Look for E1420, Acetylated starch in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: acetyldted starch, acetylated stareh, aeetylated starch.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.