E999: Quillaia Extract
Main role: forming and stabilizing foam
Also listed as: quillaja extract, soapbark extract
What is E999 (Quillaia Extract)?
Quillaia extract is a preparation from soapbark tree material containing saponins. It is used to help create or stabilize foam in specified food applications.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is forming and stabilizing foam. Foaming ingredients affect the formation or persistence of bubbles. Their use is a recipe function rather than a nutritional benefit, and the appropriate amount depends on the product and permitted application.
Food and formulation examples
- Foaming beverage preparations
- Flavor dispersions
- Authorized drink formulations
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 E999, E 999, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include quillaja extract, soapbark extract. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A botanical extract can have tightly controlled composition and use limits. The word natural does not remove the need for a defined food-grade specification.
Is E999 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 E999 as Quillaia extract. 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.