E1140Anti-caking Agent

Hydroxypropylated starch

Learn what Hydroxypropylated starch (E1140) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Hydroxypropylated 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 Hydroxypropylated starch added to food?

Hydroxypropylated starch (E1140) 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 Hydroxypropylated starch safe?

Low concern

No side effects at the quantities used in foods.

Is Hydroxypropylated starch banned anywhere?

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

Is Hydroxypropylated 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 Hydroxypropylated starch

  • Confectionery products
  • bakery
  • spices
  • soups
  • canned goods
  • puddings
  • concentrates
  • alcoholic beverages

See the full list of foods that contain Hydroxypropylated starch

How to spot Hydroxypropylated starch on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E1140
  • Hydroxypropylated starch

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • hydroxyprodylated starch
  • hydroxydropylated starch
  • hydroxypropyldted starch
  • hydroxypropylated stareh
  • hydroxypropylated stdrch
  • hydroxypropylated starch
  • hydroxypropylated $tarch

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 gluten intolerance should exercise caution, although hydroxypropylated starch can be derived from gluten-free sources.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • hydroxyprodylated starch
  • hydroxydropylated starch
  • hydroxypropyldted starch
  • hydroxypropylated stareh
  • hydroxypropylated stdrch
  • hydroxypropylated starch
  • hydroxypropylated $tarch

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Hydroxypropylated starch? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E1140 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Hydroxypropylated starch

Is Hydroxypropylated starch safe to eat?
No side effects at the quantities used in foods.
Is Hydroxypropylated starch banned anywhere?
Hydroxypropylated starch is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Hydroxypropylated 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 Hydroxypropylated starch on a food label?
Look for E1140, Hydroxypropylated starch in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: hydroxyprodylated starch, hydroxydropylated starch, hydroxypropyldted starch.

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