Gellan gum
Learn what Gellan gum (E418) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Gellan gum?
Food additive used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickening agent, obtained through the fermentation of starch. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsified spreads with or without flavors, sauces, toppings, dressings, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, fish, eggs, spices, soups, broths, edible films, plant-based protein products, nutritional supplements, etc.
Why is Gellan gum added to food?
Gellan gum (E418) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Dairy products, sweets, creams, margarine, canned fruits.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Gellan gum safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Gellan gum banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Gellan gum okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Gellan gum
- Dairy products
- sweets
- creams
- margarine
- canned fruits
How to spot Gellan gum on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E418
- Gellan gum
Common misspellings to watch for:
- qellan gum
- gelldn gum
- gellan gum
- gellan qum
Better alternatives
• May cause abdominal discomfort or bloating if consumed excessively. • People with irritable bowel syndrome should avoid excessive use. • Excessive consumption should be avoided by individuals with digestive sensitivities or allergies to seaweed-derived ingredients.
Also known as
- qellan gum
- gelldn gum
- gellan gum
- gellan qum
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Gellan gum? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E418 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Gellan gum
- Is Gellan gum safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Gellan gum banned anywhere?
- Gellan gum is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Gellan gum safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Gellan gum on a food label?
- Look for E418, Gellan gum in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: qellan gum, gelldn gum, gellan gum.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.