thickener INS 426

Soybean hemicellulose E426

natural — Primarily plant-derived.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Soybean polysaccharide

CAS: 9034-32-6

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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 Soybean hemicellulose?

Soybean hemicellulose (soluble soybean polysaccharide, SSPS) is a water-soluble dietary fiber extracted from soybean cotyledon cell walls after oil and protein extraction. It functions as an emulsifier and stabilizer in acidic beverages, dressings, and protein-based beverages, preventing protein aggregation at low pH — an application where other hydrocolloids fail. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA authorized soybean hemicellulose in 2008. It is particularly valued in acidic milk beverages and sport drinks where proteins tend to aggregate at low pH.

? Did You Know?

Soybean hemicellulose occurs naturally in soybean cell walls and soy fiber (okara). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Soybean hemicellulose isn't just a food additive — it's also used in cosmetics.

In the EU, Soybean hemicellulose 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)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted in specified food categories

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

A complex polysaccharide derived from soybean cotyledon fiber, a component of dietary fiber in soybeans. Typically extracted from okara, the pulp leftover from tofu production.

soybean cell wallssoy fiber (okara)

Manufacturing

Method: extraction

Extracted from soybean cotyledon fiber (okara), the byproduct of tofu and soy milk production. The fiber undergoes water extraction and purification to isolate the soluble polysaccharide fraction. This sustainable process utilizes food processing waste.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in some cosmetic formulations as a thickening and stabilizing agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Soybean hemicellulose (E426)?

Soybean hemicellulose (E426) is a thickener used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. A complex polysaccharide derived from soybean cotyledon fiber, a component of dietary fiber in soybeans. Typically extracted from okara, the pulp leftover from tofu production.

Where is Soybean hemicellulose found naturally?

Soybean hemicellulose is naturally found in soybean cell walls, soy fiber (okara). A complex polysaccharide derived from soybean cotyledon fiber, a component of dietary fiber in soybeans. Typically extracted from okara, the pulp leftover from tofu production.

What foods contain Soybean hemicellulose?

Soybean hemicellulose is used in various food categories including Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads, Flavoured drinks. It is used as a thickener in these products.

Is Soybean hemicellulose the same as Soybean polysaccharide?

Yes, Soybean hemicellulose is also known as Soybean polysaccharide, Soy fiber, Soy soluble polysaccharide. These are different names for the same substance.