E490
What is E490?
E490 is a food additive that is a mixture of fatty acid esters of glycerol. It is produced by esterifying glycerol with fatty acids, which can be derived from animal or vegetable fats and oils.
Is E490 gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is E490 a major allergen?
E490 is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is E490 used for?
It functions as an emulsifier, stabiliser, and thickener in food products.
Is E490 safe?
E490 is authorised for use as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
It functions as an emulsifier, stabiliser, and thickener in food products. E490 is often used in baked goods, confectionery, and dairy products to improve texture and consistency.
Health notes
E490 is authorised for use as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities have evaluated it, and it is permitted for use within specified limits. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical intake levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects.
Allergen info
E490 is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain E490
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