What is E403?

Ammonium alginate is a chemical compound with the chemical formula NH4C6H7O6.This is an organic ammonium salt of alginic acid. This is also a natural polyuronide found in certain brown algae. E403 sits in the E400–E499 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers.

What is E403 used for?

E403 belongs to the thickeners group. Thickeners and gelling agents give food texture and body. Many come from plants, like pectin and guar gum.

Is E403 safe?

E403 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 E403 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E403 either as the number “E403” or by the name “Ammonium 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 E403 vegan?

Yes, E403 is suitable for vegans.