E 1404 Oxidised starch

What is E 1404?

E 1404 is the E number of Oxidised starch. Modified starch that has been chemically altered to make it easier to process. It usually comes from maize, potatoes or wheat and thickens sauces and desserts.

What is E 1404 used for?

E 1404 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as modified starch, thickener.

• Modified starch: Modified starches are chemically treated starches with altered properties, for example during cooking or freezing.
• Thickener: Thickeners increase the viscosity of a food.

Which foods may contain E 1404?

According to the European Commission's database, E 1404 may be used in 71 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Eggs and egg products
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 1404 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 1404 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 1404 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Modified starch: E 1404" or "Modified starch: Oxidised starch".