Acetylated distarch adipate
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Description
E1422, known as acetylated distarch adipate, is a food additive belonging to the category of thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. It is a chemically modified starch to improve its functional properties. Its origin is natural, as it is obtained from corn, potato, wheat, or tapioca starches, which undergo an industrial modification process.
Industrially, the starch is treated with acetic anhydride and adipic acid, introducing acetyl groups and adipate cross-links. This gives the starch greater resistance to temperature, shear, and acidic conditions, as well as improved freeze-thaw stability. The physicochemical properties of E1422 include high water absorption capacity, formation of viscous and stable gels, and resistance to retrogradation.
Its main function is to thicken, stabilize, and provide texture to foods, preventing phase separation and improving mouthfeel. The history of its approval in the European Union dates back to Directive 95/2/EC, and it is currently regulated by Regulation (EC) 1333/2008.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated E1422 on several occasions, most recently in 2017, establishing that it is not necessary to set a specific acceptable daily intake (ADI) as it poses no health risks at authorized usage levels. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have also evaluated it, concluding that it is safe for human consumption.
The overall safety assessment is positive, considering it a safe additive when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. On labeling, it must appear as "acetylated distarch adipate" or with its E number E1422.
It is important to note that although it is a modified starch, it does not contain gluten and is suitable for celiacs. In summary, E1422 is a widely used and safe food additive that contributes to the quality and stability of numerous processed products.
E1422 is used in a wide variety of food categories as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. According to Regulation (EC) 1333/2008, it is authorized in multiple products with limits ranging from quantum satis to specific maximum amounts. For example, it is used in sauces and condiments (up to 20 g/kg), fine bakery products (up to 20 g/kg), dairy desserts (up to 10 g/kg), ice cream (up to 5 g/kg), and processed meat products (up to 10 g/kg).
In the Spanish market, it is commonly found in tomato sauces, mayonnaises, yogurts, custards, flans, ice creams, sausages such as frankfurters, and industrial pastries. It is also used in infant and dietary foods, although with more restrictive limits. Comparatively, the FDA (United States) also approves it as a direct food additive, with similar uses and no specific limits under good manufacturing practices. In Japan, it is permitted as a thickener in various foods.
The versatility of E1422 makes it a key ingredient for achieving stable and attractive textures in processed foods.
Scientific studies and evaluations by EFSA and WHO have not documented significant adverse effects associated with the consumption of E1422 at authorized levels. It is a modified starch that is digested and metabolized similarly to natural starches, being hydrolyzed by digestive enzymes in the small intestine.
No relevant toxicity mechanisms have been identified. In animal studies, no carcinogenic, genotoxic, or teratogenic effects were observed. Sensitive populations, such as celiacs, can consume it without issue as it does not contain gluten. No interactions with medications have been reported.
EFSA concluded that it is not necessary to establish a numerical ADI, as the estimated dietary exposure does not pose a health risk. However, in individuals with severe digestive disorders or malabsorption syndrome, excessive consumption of modified starches could cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, due to fermentation in the colon.
Overall, E1422 is considered safe for the general population at current usage levels.
- Acetylated starch
- Acetylated distarch adipate
- Acetylated distarch adipate
- Acetylated distarch adipate
Products in our Spanish database containing this additive
Examples found in ComerClaro Spanish product database
Product names and supermarket data may appear in Spanish.
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