Ingredient

Thickener

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Thickeners are added to foods to improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel, preventing ingredients from …

What is Thickener?

Thickeners are substances that increase the viscosity of liquids without significantly altering their other properties. They are often derived from natural sources like plants, or can be produced through industrial processes. Many are polysaccharides or proteins.

Is Thickener gluten-free?

Gluten is not a major allergen.

Is Thickener a major allergen?

Thickeners are not typically among the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Thickener used for?

Thickeners are added to foods to improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel, preventing ingredients from separating.

Is Thickener safe?

Thickeners are authorised food additives in Great Britain and listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Thickeners are added to foods to improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel, preventing ingredients from separating. They are commonly found in sauces, gravies, dairy products, desserts, and baked goods.

Health notes

Thickeners are authorised food additives in Great Britain and listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They are generally considered safe at typical consumption levels. Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from certain thickeners if consumed in very large quantities, but this is not common at typical dietary intakes.

Allergen info

Thickeners are not typically among the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Gluten is not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Thickener

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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.