E418: Gellan Gum
Main role: gelling and suspension
Also listed as: gellan, gellan gum preparation
What is E418 (Gellan Gum)?
Gellan gum is a fermentation-produced polysaccharide. It can create gels or networks that keep particles suspended in a beverage. Different gellan forms and mineral conditions produce different textures, from more brittle to more flexible gels.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is gelling and suspension. 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
- Plant-based drinks
- Beverage suspension systems
- Dessert gels
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 E418, E 418, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include gellan, gellan gum preparation. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A small gellan network can prevent settling without making a drink visibly thick. The presence of the gum does not disclose the beverage's calcium, protein, or overall nutritional quality.
Is E418 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
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 E418 as Gellan gum. 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.