What is E402?

E402 (Potassium alginate) is a thickeners food additive. Thickener from seaweed. E402 sits in the E400–E499 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers.

What is E402 used for?

E402 belongs to the thickeners group. Thickeners and gelling agents give food texture and body. Many come from plants, like pectin and guar gum.

Is E402 safe?

E402 is considered safe at the levels used in food and is approved for use in the EU. “Safe” means it is approved in the EU and regarded as safe at the levels used in food.

How E402 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E402 either as the number “E402” or by the name “Potassium alginate” in the ingredient list, often after its function. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so an additive near the end is present only in small amounts.

Is E402 vegan?

Yes, E402 is suitable for vegans.