stabiliser INS 413

Tragacanth E413

natural β€” Primarily plant-derived.

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU: Approved
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA: Approved
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan: Approved
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AU/NZ: Approved
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Astragalus gummifer gum

CAS: 9000-65-1

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Tragacanth occurs naturally in Astragalus species shrubs and Native to Middle East (Iran, Turkey, Syria). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Tragacanth is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Tragacanth has a "quantum satis" authorization β€” Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in most food categories

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: ζ—’ε­˜ζ·»εŠ η‰©

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

A natural gum obtained from the dried sap of several Astragalus species. One of the oldest known food additives, used for over 2,000 years. It is collected by making incisions in the plant stems.

Astragalus species shrubsNative to Middle East (Iran, Turkey, Syria)Dried sap from plant stems

Manufacturing

Method: extraction

The gum naturally exudes from wounds in the stems of Astragalus shrubs. It is hand-collected as dried ribbons or flakes, then ground into powder.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in lotions, hair styling products, and toothpaste.

Medical

Used in pharmaceutical emulsions and as a tablet binder.

Industrial

Used in textile printing, calico printing, and as a binder in artist paints.

Household

Used in cake decorating and sugar paste

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tragacanth (E413)?
Tragacanth (E413) is a stabiliser used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. A natural gum obtained from the dried sap of several Astragalus species. One of the oldest known food additives, used for over 2,000 years. It is collected by making incisions in the plant stems.
Where is Tragacanth found naturally?
Tragacanth is naturally found in Astragalus species shrubs, Native to Middle East (Iran, Turkey, Syria), Dried sap from plant stems. A natural gum obtained from the dried sap of several Astragalus species. One of the oldest known food additives, used for over 2,000 years. It is collected by making incisions in the plant stems.
What foods contain Tragacanth?
Tragacanth is used in various food categories including Flavoured fermented milk products, Other confectionery. It is used as a stabiliser in these products.
Is Tragacanth the same as Gum tragacanth?
Yes, Tragacanth is also known as Gum tragacanth, Tragacanth gum, Goat's thorn. These are different names for the same substance.