CodeE400 · INS 400
TypeThickener
Made fromBrown seaweed.
Found indesserts, sauces, dairy products, ice cream and soups
What is E400?
E400 is Alginic acid, a thickener. Plant (algae).
Also written as: INS 400, E-400, E 400. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Frequently asked questions
Is E400 halal?
E400 (Alginic acid) is halal. Plant (algae).
What is E400 made from?
Brown seaweed.
What is E400 used for?
E400 is used as a thickener, typically in desserts, sauces, dairy products, ice cream and soups.
What should I do if a product contains E400?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Related E-numbers
E401Sodium alginateE402Potassium alginateE404Calcium alginateE405Propylene glycol alginateE407CarrageenanE407aProcessed eucheuma seaweedE385Calcium disodium EDTA
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. How we decide · Suggest a correction