Castor oil
A safe plant oil; high doses act as a laxative.
- Category
- Carriers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Castor oil is a plant oil pressed from castor beans, used as a release agent and carrier.
How it is used in food
Stops sweets sticking to the mould and to each other.
Commonly found in- Sugar confectionery coatings
- Supplement tablets
- Release agent for sweets
Health and safety
None at the amounts used as an additive. At the spoonful doses it was once given in, it is a strong laxative — that is the effect its reputation comes from.
Evaluated as a food additive with its use restricted to confectionery coatings and food supplements.
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
- E1503
Worth knowing
Ricin, the toxin in the castor bean, is a protein and stays behind in the pressed seed cake — it does not carry into the oil.
Conclusion
A safe plant oil; high doses act as a laxative.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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