E405Emulsifier

Propylene glycol alginate

Learn what Propylene glycol alginate (E405) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Propylene glycol alginate?

Food additive with emulsifying, stabilizing, humectant, flavoring, thickening, agglomerating, and foaming properties, making beer foam more abundant and durable. It is a derivative of alginic acid. It is also used as a carrier substance for other food additives. It is used in fine bakery products, creams, glazes, dressings, toppings, fillings, emulsions, beer, liqueurs, soft drinks, edible ice, confectionery, snacks, nutritional supplements, etc.

Why is Propylene glycol alginate added to food?

Propylene glycol alginate (E405) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Bakery products, creams, glazes, beer, liqueur, cakes.

Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 70 mg/kg body weight.

Is Propylene glycol alginate safe?

Low concern

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

Is Propylene glycol alginate banned anywhere?

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

Is Propylene glycol alginate okay for kids?

Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Propylene glycol alginate

  • Bakery products
  • creams
  • glazes
  • beer
  • liqueur
  • cakes

See the full list of foods that contain Propylene glycol alginate

How to spot Propylene glycol alginate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E405
  • Propylene glycol alginate

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • propylene glyeol alginate
  • propylene glycol alginate
  • propylene qlycol alginate
  • propylene glycol alglnate
  • propylene glycol dlginate
  • dropylene glycol alginate
  • propylene glycol algindte
  • propylene glycol alqinate
  • prodylene glycol alginate

Better alternatives

• May cause abdominal discomfort or bloating in case of excessive consumption. • Use in large quantities may lead to laxative effects. • Individuals with digestive sensitivities or gastrointestinal conditions should avoid excessive use. • Not recommended for individuals with allergies to marine algae or propylene glycol.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • propylene glyeol alginate
  • propylene glycol alginate
  • propylene qlycol alginate
  • propylene glycol alglnate
  • propylene glycol dlginate
  • dropylene glycol alginate
  • propylene glycol algindte
  • propylene glycol alqinate
  • prodylene glycol alginate

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Propylene glycol alginate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E405 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Propylene glycol alginate

Is Propylene glycol alginate safe to eat?
No secondary effects have been reported at quantities incorporated in food.
Is Propylene glycol alginate banned anywhere?
Propylene glycol alginate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Propylene glycol alginate safe for children?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
How do I spot Propylene glycol alginate on a food label?
Look for E405, Propylene glycol alginate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: propylene glyeol alginate, propylene glycol alginate, propylene qlycol alginate.

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