Appears safe based on current evidence
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Guar Gum
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Guar Gum (E412) is rated "Appears Safe" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Guar Gum?
Natural thickener from guar beans
Guar Gum is classified as a Thickener additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Approved (GRAS)US name: Guar Gum
GRAS. Common in gluten-free baking
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
ApprovedNatural thickener from guar beans
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
ApprovedJapanese: グァーガム
Approved thickener
🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Guar Gum is classified as a thickener in the food additive regulatory framework. Current scientific evidence supports its safety when consumed within established limits. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Guar Gum safe?
Guar Gum has a safety rating of "Appears Safe". Appears safe based on current evidence
Is Guar Gum vegan?
Guar Gum is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Guar Gum banned in Europe?
No, Guar Gum is Approved in the EU.
What is Guar Gum made from?
Natural thickener from guar beans
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Guar Gum safe?
Is Guar Gum banned in any country?
What is Guar Gum used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Guar Gum is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
Often Found Together
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