Arabic gum
Learn what Arabic gum (E414) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Arabic gum?
A food additive with roles as an emulsifier, stabilizer, thickening agent, filler, and agglomerating agent. It is a natural product obtained from the Acacia senegal tree. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsified fats (with or without flavors), sauces, toppings, dressings, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, fish, eggs, condiments, soups, broths, edible casings, plant-based proteins, dietary supplements, etc. It is also used as a carrier for other food additives.
Why is Arabic gum added to food?
Arabic gum (E414) is a thickening agent commonly found in: Sweets, creams, margarine.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Arabic gum safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Arabic gum banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Arabic gum okay for kids?
Allowed in foods intended for infants and young children in quantities of 1000-2000 mg/l.
Common foods that contain Arabic gum
- Sweets
- creams
- margarine
How to spot Arabic gum on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E414
- Arabic gum
Common misspellings to watch for:
- arabic gum
- ardbic gum
- arablc gum
- arabic qum
- drabic gum
- arabie gum
Better alternatives
• In large doses, gum arabic may cause bloating and flatulence due to its fermentation in the large intestine. • People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience aggravated symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, or general discomfort if they consume large amounts of gum arabic. • Excessive consumption may interfere with the absorption of certain minerals like calcium and magnesium, potentially affecting bone health in the long term. • People allergic to acacia derivatives or sensitive to dietary fibers may experience adverse reactions, including skin rashes or breathing difficulties.
Also known as
- arabic gum
- ardbic gum
- arablc gum
- arabic qum
- drabic gum
- arabie gum
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Arabic gum? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E414 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Arabic gum
- Is Arabic gum safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Arabic gum banned anywhere?
- Arabic gum is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Arabic gum safe for children?
- Allowed in foods intended for infants and young children in quantities of 1000-2000 mg/l.
- How do I spot Arabic gum on a food label?
- Look for E414, Arabic gum in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: arabic gum, ardbic gum, arablc gum.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.