E 460 Cellulose

What is E 460?

E 460 is the E number of Cellulose. Plant fibre, usually obtained from wood. It is used as a bulking agent and anti-caking agent, for example in grated cheese and food supplements.

What is E 460 used for?

E 460 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as bulking agent, anti-caking agent, thickener, stabiliser.

• Bulking agent: Bulking agents contribute to the volume of a food without significantly adding to its energy value.
• Anti-caking agent: Anti-caking agents stop particles of a food from sticking together or forming lumps.
• Thickener: Thickeners increase the viscosity of a food.
• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.

Which foods may contain E 460?

According to the European Commission's database, E 460 may be used in 4 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products

Is E 460 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 460 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 460 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 "Bulking agent: E 460" or "Bulking agent: Cellulose".