E405: Propylene Glycol Alginate
Main role: stabilization and thickening
Also listed as: propane-1,2-diol alginate, PGA
What is E405 (Propylene Glycol Alginate)?
Propylene glycol alginate is an esterified alginate preparation. Modifying alginic acid changes its formulation performance, including behavior in acidic systems. It is a polymeric alginate ingredient, not simply free propylene glycol added under a different name.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is stabilization and thickening. Texture ingredients help a recipe control thickness, binding, or separation. Their behavior depends on temperature, acidity, concentration, and other ingredients; two thickeners with similar names may not perform identically.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified acidic beverages
- Sauces and dressings
- Foam-stabilization systems
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E405, E 405, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include propane-1,2-diol alginate, PGA. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
PGA E405 and propylene glycol E1520 have different identities and roles. The shared words in their names do not make them interchangeable ingredients.
Is E405 safe?
The EFSA alginates re-evaluation (2017) is a scientific reference for this group. Its conclusions apply to the uses and exposures considered in that assessment, rather than every possible use or personal circumstance.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E405 as Propane-1, 2-diol alginate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.