Quillaia extract
Score impact
0.00
points/product
Description
The food additive E999, known as quillaia extract, is a natural emulsifier and foaming agent obtained from the bark of the Quillaja saponaria tree, native to Chile and other regions of South America. Its use dates back to pre-Columbian times, where indigenous people used it as a natural soap due to its high saponin content. Industrially, it is obtained by aqueous or hydroalcoholic extraction of the bark, followed by purification and spray drying.
The extract contains a complex mixture of triterpenoid saponins (mainly quillaic acid and its derivatives), along with tannins, polyphenols, and sugars. These saponins give it surfactant properties, allowing it to stabilize oil-water emulsions and form stable foams.
In the European Union, E999 was authorized as a food additive after evaluations by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) and the Scientific Committee on Food (SCF). EFSA established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0-5 mg/kg body weight, based on subchronic and chronic toxicity studies in animals, which showed no significant adverse effects at relevant doses. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also evaluated it, confirming its safety at proposed use levels.
Regarding labeling, it must be listed as 'quillaia extract' or 'E999' in the ingredient list. Globally, it is considered a safe additive, with low allergenic potential and no evidence of carcinogenicity or genotoxicity. Its natural origin and long history of use contribute to its favorable food safety profile.
E999 is mainly used as an emulsifier and foaming agent in a variety of foods. According to Regulation EC 1333/2008, it is authorized in categories such as non-alcoholic beverages (e.g., soft drinks, flavored waters), confectionery, emulsified sauces, dairy desserts, and ice cream.
In the Spanish market, it is found in carbonated fruit-flavored beverages, such as some cola or tonic drink brands, and in salad dressings. Maximum limits vary: in beverages, up to 200 mg/L; in sauces, up to 500 mg/kg; in ice cream, up to 100 mg/kg. Comparatively, the FDA classifies it as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for similar uses, while in Japan it is permitted with restrictions.
Its ability to stabilize foams makes it especially useful in non-alcoholic beers and baked goods.
Documented adverse effects of E999 are rare and generally mild. Studies in animals at doses much higher than the ADI have shown gastrointestinal irritation and diarrhea, attributable to saponins that can damage the intestinal mucosa at high concentrations. However, at authorized use levels in food, no significant effects have been reported in humans.
EFSA concluded that there is no evidence of reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, or carcinogenicity. Sensitive populations, such as individuals with pre-existing digestive disorders, may experience mild discomfort if they consume large amounts of products containing E999, but there are no conclusive data. No interactions with medications are known. The WHO supports its safety, highlighting that the ADI provides a wide safety margin.
In summary, E999 is considered safe for the general population at the amounts present in the diet.
- Quillaja bark extract
- Quillaja saponin
- Quillaja saponaria extract
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