Karaya Gum E416
natural — Primarily plant-derived.
Sterculia urens gum
CAS: 9000-36-6
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 Karaya Gum?
Karaya gum is a dried exudate from Sterculia trees (primarily Sterculia urens from India). It swells in water to form viscous colloidal solutions but does not dissolve completely, forming mucilaginous suspensions. Used as a thickener and stabilizer in ice cream, dressings, and meat products, and as a laxative-bulking agent in pharmaceutical applications. JECFA considers it acceptable with no numerical ADI. EFSA reviewed karaya gum in 2017, finding no safety concerns at food use levels. It is approved in the EU, USA (GRAS), and most other jurisdictions.
? Did You Know?
Karaya Gum occurs naturally in Sterculia urens trees and Native to India (major producer). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Karaya Gum is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Karaya Gum 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 Sterculia trees. India produces most of the world's karaya gum. It was historically used as a substitute for tragacanth gum.
Manufacturing
Obtained by tapping Sterculia trees through incisions in the bark. The gum exudes and dries on the tree, then is hand-collected, cleaned, ground, and sieved into powder.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in hair wave sets and cosmetic lotions.
Used in denture adhesives, laxatives, and as a bulk-forming agent.
Used in textile printing and adhesives.