gelling agent INS 428

Gelatin E428

animal protein β€” Primarily animal-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

Hydrolyzed collagen

CAS: 9000-70-8

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?

Beyond food, Gelatin 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, Gelatin 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. Must declare source on label for religious/dietary considerations.

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

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: acid or alkali hydrolysis

Type A gelatin (acid-processed) is primarily made from pork skin. Type B gelatin (alkali-processed) is made from cattle bones and hide. Fish gelatin is extracted from fish skin and bones using similar processes. Collagen is hydrolyzed to break it down into gelatin through heating and chemical treatment.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in skincare products, face masks, and hair care products for its film-forming properties.

Medical

Widely used for capsule shells (both hard and soft gelatin capsules), tablet coatings, and as a stabilizer in vaccines.

Industrial

Historical use in photography (gelatin silver prints), adhesives, and paper manufacturing.

Household

Home cooking for aspics, mousses, and desserts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gelatin (E428)?
Gelatin (E428) is a gelling agent used in food products. It is animal protein and animal-derived. Gelatin is not found in this form in nature but is derived from collagen, the most abundant protein in animal connective tissues, bones, and skin. It must be extracted and processed to create the gelatin form.
What foods contain Gelatin?
Gelatin is used in various food categories including Other confectionery, Chewing gum, Desserts. It is used as a gelling agent in these products.
Is Gelatin the same as Gelatine?
Yes, Gelatin is also known as Gelatine, Gel, Animal gelatin, Collagen hydrolysate. These are different names for the same substance.