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E1413 · Thickeners

Phosphated distarch phosphate

No known risk

A safe, functional modified starch for temperature-stable foods.

Category
Thickeners
Vegan
Yes
Vegetarian
Yes

What it is

Phosphated distarch phosphate is starch that is both cross-linked and phosphate-substituted, the most heat-resistant grade.

How it is used in food

Holds a sauce together through pressure-canning, freezing and reheating alike.

Commonly found in
  • Retorted and canned foods
  • Frozen ready meals
  • Long-shelf-life sauces

Health and safety

None known; the phosphate added is small next to the phosphate in ordinary food.

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

RegionStatusNotes
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
E1413

Worth knowing

The double treatment is what lets a canned sauce survive sterilisation without going thin.

Conclusion

A safe, functional modified starch for temperature-stable foods.

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Entry last reviewed 2026-07-28.

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