E403Stabilizer

Ammonium alginate

Learn what Ammonium alginate (E403) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Ammonium alginate?

Food additive with emulsifying, stabilizing, and thickening properties. It is the ammonium salt of alginic acid. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for all dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsion fats (spreadable with or without flavorings), sauces, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, canned meats, nutritional supplements, etc. Ammonium alginate is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children. It is also used as a carrier substance for other food additives.

Why is Ammonium alginate added to food?

Ammonium alginate (E403) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Dairy products, sweets, margarine, creams, canned meat.

Permitted quantity: No maximum daily intake has been established.

Is Ammonium alginate safe?

Low concern

No secondary effects have been reported at quantities incorporated in food.

Is Ammonium alginate banned anywhere?

✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.

Is Ammonium alginate okay for kids?

Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Ammonium alginate

  • Dairy products
  • sweets
  • margarine
  • creams
  • canned meat

See the full list of foods that contain Ammonium alginate

How to spot Ammonium alginate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E403
  • Ammonium alginate

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • dmmonium alginate
  • ammonlum alginate
  • ammonium algindte
  • ammonium dlginate
  • ammonium alginate
  • ammonium alglnate
  • ammonium alqinate

Better alternatives

• Not recommended for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to marine algae or ammonium-based compounds. • May cause irritation in the digestive tract in case of excessive consumption. • Contraindicated for individuals with kidney or liver conditions, due to the potential accumulation of ammonia.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • dmmonium alginate
  • ammonlum alginate
  • ammonium algindte
  • ammonium dlginate
  • ammonium alginate
  • ammonium alglnate
  • ammonium alqinate

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Ammonium alginate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E403 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Ammonium alginate

Is Ammonium alginate safe to eat?
No secondary effects have been reported at quantities incorporated in food.
Is Ammonium alginate banned anywhere?
Ammonium alginate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ammonium alginate safe for children?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
How do I spot Ammonium alginate on a food label?
Look for E403, Ammonium alginate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dmmonium alginate, ammonlum alginate, ammonium algindte.

Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.