What is E464?

Hypromellose (INN), short for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose or hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), is a semisynthetic, inert, viscoelastic polymer used in eye drops, as well as an excipient and controlled-delivery component in oral medicaments, found in a variety of commercial products. E464 sits in the E400–E499 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers.

What is E464 used for?

E464 belongs to the thickeners group. Thickeners and gelling agents give food texture and body. Many come from plants, like pectin and guar gum.

Is E464 safe?

E464 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 E464 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E464 either as the number “E464” or by the name “Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose” 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 E464 vegan?

Yes, E464 is suitable for vegans.