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E1400–E1452Caution

Modified starches

Group: Thickeners · in the book

Harm level3 of 5In moderation

In plain words

Modified starches are ordinary starches (from maize, potatoes or tapioca) altered so they thicken better and withstand cooking, freezing or acidity. You meet them in instant soups, sauces, puddings, yoghurts, dressings and ready meals.

Where you find it: instant soups, sauces, desserts, 'light' products

Our recommendation

Limit products that list modified starches among the first ingredients.

Possible risks and effects

  • No known toxic risk as an additive.
  • They raise blood glucose quickly and supply empty calories.
  • A marker of ultra-processed products with low nutritional value.

For experts

The group includes dextrins and oxidised, acetylated, phosphated or hydroxypropylated starches made by physical, enzymatic or chemical treatment of native starch. They act as thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers. EFSA's 2017 re-evaluation found no safety concern and no need for a numerical ADI; nutritionally they are rapidly digestible carbohydrates typical of ultra-processed products.

Check another E-number

More from this group

E407CarrageenanE407aProcessed eucheuma seaweedE412Guar gumE466Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)E415Xanthan gumE400Alginic acidE401Sodium alginateE406Agar

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.