E 427 Cassia gum

What is E 427?

E 427 is the E number of Cassia gum. Thickener from the seeds of cassia plants. It is used in desserts and ice cream.

What is E 427 used for?

E 427 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as thickener, gelling agent, stabiliser.

• Thickener: Thickeners increase the viscosity of a food.
• Gelling agent: Gelling agents give a food texture through the formation of a gel.
• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.

Which foods may contain E 427?

According to the European Commission's database, E 427 may be used in 8 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Edible ices
• Confectionery
• Meat
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Desserts

Is E 427 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 427 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 427 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Thickener: E 427" or "Thickener: Cassia gum".