E1402 · Thickeners
Alkaline modified starch
A safe modified plant starch.
- Category
- Thickeners
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Alkaline-treated starch is plant starch adjusted with an alkali to change how it swells and thickens.
How it is used in food
Changes the temperature at which the starch swells, giving smoother thickening.
Commonly found in- Ready meals
- Sauces
- Baked goods
Health and safety
None known; it is digested as ordinary starch.
EFSA's 2017 re-evaluation of the modified starches found no safety concern at the reported use levels and set no numerical ADI — they are handled as food ingredients rather than as toxicological hazards.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (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
- E1402
Worth knowing
The alkali is neutralised and washed out during manufacture.
Conclusion
A safe modified plant starch.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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