E 463a Low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (L-HPC)

What is E 463a?

E 463a is the E number of Low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (L-HPC). Modified cellulose used mainly in food supplements in tablet form.

What is E 463a used for?

E 463a belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as bulking agent, stabiliser.

• Bulking agent: Bulking agents contribute to the volume of a food without significantly adding to its energy value.
• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.

Which foods may contain E 463a?

The EU database lists no food categories under Annex II for this substance. It may, for example, only be used in additives, flavourings, enzymes or nutrients (Annex III) or under other rules such as wine law.

Is E 463a 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 463a linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 463a 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 "Bulking agent: E 463a" or "Bulking agent: Low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose".