What is E412?

Guar gum, also called guaran, is a galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from guar beans that has thickening and stabilizing properties useful in food, feed, and industrial applications. The guar seeds are mechanically dehusked, hydrated, milled and screened according to application. E412 sits in the E400–E499 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers.

What is E412 used for?

E412 belongs to the thickeners group. Thickeners and gelling agents give food texture and body. Many come from plants, like pectin and guar gum.

Is E412 safe?

E412 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 E412 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E412 either as the number “E412” or by the name “Guar gum” 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 E412 vegan?

Yes, E412 is suitable for vegans.