E1210 · Thickeners
Carbomer
A highly functional synthetic thickener restricted to liquid supplements.
- Category
- Thickeners
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Carbomer is a cross-linked acrylic acid polymer used to thicken liquid supplements.
How it is used in food
Holds a suspension of solids evenly through a liquid so the dose stays consistent.
Commonly found in- Liquid food supplements
Health and safety
None known at the levels used; the polymer is far too large to cross the gut wall.
Molecules this large are not absorbed from the gut, which is why they carry very low toxicity and why EFSA generally sets no numerical ADI for them.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E1210
Worth knowing
In the EU its use is limited to liquid food supplements.
Conclusion
A highly functional synthetic thickener restricted to liquid supplements.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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