Tragacanth E413
natural — Primarily plant-derived.
Astragalus gummifer gum
CAS: 9000-65-1
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.
What Is Tragacanth?
Tragacanth is a natural gum exudate from Astragalus shrubs (primarily A. gummifer), harvested in Iran, Turkey, and surrounding regions. It forms stable emulsions and maintains viscosity across a wide pH range (2–10), making it valuable in salad dressings, confectionery, ice cream, and pharmaceutical products. JECFA considers it acceptable with no numerical ADI. EFSA reviewed tragacanth in 2017, confirming no safety concerns at typical food use levels. It is one of the oldest food additives in documented use, with historical applications dating back to antiquity.
? Did You Know?
Tragacanth occurs naturally in Astragalus species shrubs and Native to Middle East (Iran, Turkey, Syria). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Tragacanth 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, Tragacanth has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
A natural gum obtained from the dried sap of several Astragalus species. One of the oldest known food additives, used for over 2,000 years. It is collected by making incisions in the plant stems.
Manufacturing
The gum naturally exudes from wounds in the stems of Astragalus shrubs. It is hand-collected as dried ribbons or flakes, then ground into powder.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in lotions, hair styling products, and toothpaste.
Used in pharmaceutical emulsions and as a tablet binder.
Used in textile printing, calico printing, and as a binder in artist paints.
Used in cake decorating and sugar paste