E1402 – Alkaline-Treated Starch

E1402, known as alkaline-treated starch, is a modified starch produced by treating native starch with alkaline substances such as sodium hydroxide (E524) or potassium hydroxide (E525). This treatment alters the starch’s properties, enhancing its functionality in various food applications. 

Danger Level: 1 – Mostly Safe

Purpose in Products

  • Thickening Agent: E1402 is commonly used to increase the viscosity of food products, providing a desirable texture in items like sauces, soups, and gravies. 
  • Stabilizer: It helps maintain the stability of emulsions and suspensions, preventing the separation of ingredients in products such as salad dressings and dairy desserts. 
  • Emulsifier: E1402 aids in the uniform dispersion of fat and water phases in food products, ensuring consistent texture and appearance.

Health Considerations

  • Digestibility: Alkaline-treated starches are generally considered safe for consumption, as they are derived from natural starch sources and are processed to be digestible by the human body.
  • Allergenicity: Individuals with specific allergies to the source of the native starch (e.g., corn, wheat) should exercise caution, as traces of the original material may remain.

Impact on Children

There is no specific evidence indicating that E1402 poses additional risks to children when consumed within acceptable daily intake levels. However, it is advisable to monitor the intake of processed foods containing modified starches in children’s diets.

Impact on Taste

E1402 is generally neutral in flavor and does not significantly alter the taste of food products. Its primary function is to modify texture and stability without impacting the overall flavor profile.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Alkaline-treated starch is compatible with various other food additives, including other thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers, allowing for synergistic effects in food formulations.

Natural Occurrence

While native starches occur naturally in plants, E1402 is a chemically modified derivative and does not occur naturally.

Alternatives and Substitutes

Other modified starches and thickeners that can serve similar functions include:

  • E1401 – Acid-Treated Starch: Produced by treating starch with acids, offering different functional properties. 
  • E1404 – Oxidized Starch: Obtained by treating starch with oxidizing agents, used as a thickener and stabilizer. 
  • Natural Thickeners: Such as guar gum, xanthan gum, and pectin, which can also provide thickening and stabilizing effects in food products.

Regulation

E1402 is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including those in the European Union. Regulatory authorities have evaluated its safety and established guidelines for its use in food processing. 

Conclusion

E1402 (Alkaline-Treated Starch) is a versatile food additive employed to enhance the texture, stability, and consistency of various food products. When used within regulated limits, it is considered safe for consumption, with no significant health risks identified. As always, adherence to regulatory guidelines ensures consumer safety.