Alginic acid
Learn what Alginic acid (E400) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Alginic acid?
Food additive with the role of emulsifier, stabilizer, thickening agent, and bulking agent. It is a natural product obtained from several species of brown algae. It is used in the quantities prescribed by recipes in all dairy products, sweets, creams, spreadable emulsified fats with or without flavorings, sauces, ice creams, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, etc. Alginate derivatives are allowed in preparations for infants and young children, but only in puddings and desserts based on processed cereals. It is also used as a support substance for other food additives.
Why is Alginic acid added to food?
Alginic acid (E400) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Dairy products, sweets, creams, spreadable emulsified fats.
Permitted quantity: No maximum daily dose has been established.
Is Alginic acid safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated in food.
Is Alginic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Alginic acid okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in foods for children within the prescribed limits.
Common foods that contain Alginic acid
- Dairy products
- sweets
- creams
- spreadable emulsified fats
How to spot Alginic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E400
- Alginic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- alginic dcid
- alginic acld
- alqinic acid
- alginic acid
- dlginic acid
- alginie acid
- alginlc acid
- alglnic acid
- alginic aeid
Better alternatives
• Not recommended for individuals with allergies to marine algae or their acidic components. • Excessive consumption may cause laxative effects. • Individuals with digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, should avoid excessive use.
Also known as
- alginic dcid
- alginic acld
- alqinic acid
- alginic acid
- dlginic acid
- alginie acid
- alginlc acid
- alglnic acid
- alginic aeid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Alginic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E400 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Alginic acid
- Is Alginic acid safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated in food.
- Is Alginic acid banned anywhere?
- Alginic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Alginic acid safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in foods for children within the prescribed limits.
- How do I spot Alginic acid on a food label?
- Look for E400, Alginic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: alginic dcid, alginic acld, alqinic acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.