Karaya gum
Learn what Karaya gum (E416) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Karaya gum?
Used in fine bakery and pastry products, creams, sweet fillings, glazes, various desserts, egg liqueur, chewing gum. A plant-derived food additive used as a stabilizer and thickening agent.
Why is Karaya gum added to food?
Karaya gum (E416) is a thickening agent commonly found in: Fine bakery products, egg liqueur, chewing gum.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Karaya gum safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Karaya gum banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Karaya gum okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Karaya gum
- Fine bakery products
- egg liqueur
- chewing gum
How to spot Karaya gum on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E416
- Karaya gum
Common misspellings to watch for:
- karaya qum
- karayd gum
- kdraya gum
- kardya gum
- karaya gum
Better alternatives
• May cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea, especially at high doses. • Excessive use may lead to laxative effects. • People with digestive system disorders or irritable bowel syndrome should avoid excessive use. • Not recommended for people with allergies to plants in the Sterculiaceae family.
Also known as
- karaya qum
- karayd gum
- kdraya gum
- kardya gum
- karaya gum
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Karaya gum? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E416 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Karaya gum
- Is Karaya gum safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Karaya gum banned anywhere?
- Karaya gum is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Karaya gum safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Karaya gum on a food label?
- Look for E416, Karaya gum in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: karaya qum, karayd gum, kdraya gum.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.