Ingredient · E1420

Acetylated starch

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add acetylated starch as a thickener and stabiliser in a variety of food …

What is Acetylated starch?

Acetylated starch is a modified starch derived from common starches like maize, potato, or tapioca. It is produced by chemically treating starch with acetic anhydride to alter its properties, making it more stable and resistant to heat and acid.

Is Acetylated starch vegan?

Acetylated starch is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Acetylated starch gluten-free?

It is considered safe for individuals with gluten intolerance.

Is Acetylated starch a major allergen?

Acetylated starch is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Acetylated starch used for?

Manufacturers add acetylated starch as a thickener and stabiliser in a variety of food products.

Is Acetylated starch safe?

Acetylated starch is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed in the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add acetylated starch as a thickener and stabiliser in a variety of food products. Its improved texture and stability make it useful in sauces, dressings, yoghurts, and ready meals, helping to maintain a consistent consistency during processing and storage.

Health notes

Acetylated starch is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed in the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is approved for use in a range of foods under specified conditions. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated acetylated starch and other modified starches. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects.

Regulatory status

Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products

Permitted uses in the EU

Acetylated starch · legislation: 2025-2058

Food categoryMaximum level
1.6.2 Unflavoured live fermented cream products and substitute products, both with a fat content of less than 20 %No numerical limit listed
1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children*50000
13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/201350000

Maximum levels are shown as published (mg/kg or mg/l, depending on the food). Some entries carry extra conditions and group authorisations are not listed here, so check the full entry before relying on a figure.

Substance is included in Group I, see also authorisation for Group I

Sources: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3); European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Acetylated starch is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is considered safe for individuals with gluten intolerance.

Foods that contain Acetylated starch

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.