Anionic methacrylate copolymer
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Description
E1207, also known as anionic methacrylate copolymer, is a food additive belonging to the 'Other' category according to European classification. It is a synthetic polymer derived from methacrylic acid and its esters, produced by emulsion or solution polymerization. Industrially, it is obtained by copolymerization of methacrylic acid with methyl or ethyl methacrylate, followed by partial neutralization with bases such as sodium hydroxide to form an anionic salt. The final product is a white or slightly yellowish powder, soluble in water, with film-forming properties and the ability to form protective coatings.
Its main function in food is as a coating (glazing) agent to protect sensitive compounds, improve stability, control the release of active ingredients, or mask flavors.
Historically, it was approved in the European Union in 2012 after evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA, in its 2010 opinion, established that no numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) is needed, as estimated exposure is low and poses no health risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) has not set a specific ADI but considers it safe under authorized conditions of use.
Regarding food safety, E1207 is considered a low-risk additive with no significant adverse effects in toxicological studies. On labeling, it must appear as 'Anionic methacrylate copolymer' or with its E number.
It is important to note that it is not authorized in all countries; for example, in the United States it does not have GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for food use, although it is used in dietary supplements as a coating. In the EU, its use is regulated by Regulation (EC) 1333/2008, which specifies food categories and maximum permitted levels. In summary, E1207 is a safe and functional additive with specific applications in the food industry.
E1207 is mainly used as a coating agent in foods, especially in dietary supplements, confectionery products, and processed foods. In the European Union, it is authorized in categories such as 'food supplements', 'confectionery products' (e.g., chewing gum, hard and soft candies), and 'foods for special medical purposes'. Maximum limits vary by category: in supplements, it may be used quantum satis (sufficient amount to achieve the desired effect), while in confectionery it is usually limited to 1000 mg/kg.
Examples of products on the Spanish market include coated vitamin supplements, sugar-free chewing gum, and some functional candies. Comparatively, in the United States the FDA has not approved it as a direct food additive, but it is allowed in dietary supplements as a tablet coating. In Japan, its use is not authorized in general foods, although it is used in pharmaceutical products. Regulation EC 1333/2008 establishes that E1207 may only be added to foods that meet specific purity and use conditions.
Its main function is to protect sensitive ingredients (such as vitamins or probiotics) from moisture, oxygen, or light, and to control the release of flavors or nutrients.
Toxicological studies conducted by EFSA indicate that E1207 does not present significant adverse effects in humans at authorized use levels. No direct side effects such as allergies, acute or chronic toxicity, or carcinogenicity have been documented. The biological mechanism is based on the fact that the polymer is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract but is excreted unchanged in feces, minimizing systemic exposure. Sensitive populations, such as children or people with digestive disorders, show no increased risk.
No interactions with medications are known. EFSA concluded that it is not necessary to establish a numerical ADI, as estimated intake is low and does not reach concerning levels. The WHO agrees that there is no evidence of health risks. However, some animal studies with very high doses (far above human exposure) have shown mild intestinal irritation, but without clinical relevance.
In summary, E1207 is considered safe for the average consumer, with no documented side effects under normal conditions of use.
- Methacrylic acid methyl methacrylate copolymer
- Anionic methacrylate polymer
- Eudragit L
- Eudragit S
- Methacrylate copolymer type A
- Methacrylate copolymer type B
- Methacrylic acid methyl methacrylate copolymer
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