What is INS 418 (Gellan Gum)?
INS 418 is the International Numbering System code for gellan gum, a polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of sugar by the bacterium Sphingomonas elodea. Widely utilized in the food industry, gellan gum functions as an effective gelling agent, stabilizer, and thickener. It is a popular, plant-based alternative to gelatin, especially in vegan products. Its ability to create clear, firm gels with little product is particularly valued. You can find gellan gum in a variety of items, including dairy-free beverages like almond and oat milk, fortified juices, desserts, jellies, and sauces. The additive helps prevent ingredients from separating, giving products a consistent texture and appearance.
Potential Digestive Side Effects of Gellan Gum
The primary side effects of INS 418 stabilizer are linked to digestion, which is primarily due to its indigestible nature. Because gellan gum is not absorbed by the human body, it passes through the digestive tract and acts like a soluble dietary fiber.
- Bloating and Gas: For certain individuals, particularly those who are sensitive to dietary fibers or those with conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), consuming gellan gum may increase intestinal gas and bloating. This occurs when intestinal bacteria ferment the gum in the gut.
- Diarrhea or Loose Stools: Ingesting a large quantity of gellan gum can have a laxative effect, potentially causing loose stools or diarrhea. Studies on humans who consumed high doses—many times more than typical dietary exposure—indicated fecal bulking effects, though no serious adverse reactions were noted.
- Altered Gut Transit Time: The fiber-like properties of gellan gum can affect the transit time of food through the digestive tract. Some research has shown it can slow digestion, while other studies have observed a shortened transit time.
General Safety and Regulatory Profile
INS 418 has been thoroughly evaluated and approved for use in food by major international food safety authorities, and it is widely considered safe for the general population when consumed at typical dietary levels.
- FDA Approval: In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted gellan gum a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status.
- EFSA Re-evaluation: Following a re-evaluation in 2018, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found no safety concerns at reported use levels and concluded that there was no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI). The evaluation found no concern regarding genotoxicity or carcinogenicity.
- JECFA Assessment: The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has also assigned an ADI of “not specified” to gellan gum, which reflects its very low toxicity.
Factors Influencing Gellan Gum Side Effects
Several factors can influence the likelihood and intensity of experiencing side effects from INS 418:
- Dosage: The amount of gellan gum consumed is the most important factor. The small quantities used in processed foods are generally well-tolerated. Side effects are more likely with excessive intake, such as from dietary supplements or an exceptionally high consumption of products rich in gellan gum.
- Individual Sensitivity: Individuals with a sensitive digestive system or those with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions like IBS may be more susceptible to the digestive effects, even at lower doses.
- Other Additives: Gellan gum is predominantly found in processed foods that often contain other emulsifiers and additives. It can be challenging to isolate gellan gum as the sole cause of digestive distress.
Comparison of INS 418 with other food gums
| Feature | INS 418 (Gellan Gum) | Xanthan Gum | Guar Gum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Bacterial fermentation (Sphingomonas elodea) | Bacterial fermentation (Xanthomonas campestris) | Seeds of the guar plant |
| Primary Function | Gelling, stabilizing, thickening | Thickening, stabilizing | Thickening, binding, stabilizing |
| Primary Side Effects | Bloating, gas, diarrhea (at high doses) | Bloating, gas, diarrhea (at high doses) | Bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort |
| Mechanism of Action | Fermented by gut bacteria, acts as soluble fiber | Increases stool bulk through viscous solution | Fermented by gut bacteria, can increase gas |
| Regulatory Status | Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FDA | Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FDA | Approved for use, abdominal discomfort possible |
Limiting Processed Food Intake
Given that INS 418 stabilizer and other food gums are prevalent in many processed foods, prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods can naturally help limit your intake of these additives. For most healthy adults, small amounts of gellan gum are not a concern. However, if you experience persistent digestive issues, it may be prudent to read ingredient labels and consider reducing your consumption of products containing gellan gum and other gums.
Conclusion
INS 418, or gellan gum, is a safe and widely used food additive, according to major regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA. While not toxic at typical dietary levels, its indigestible nature means that excessive consumption, particularly for individuals with sensitive digestive systems, can result in mild digestive side effects, including bloating, gas, or a laxative effect. For most people, the amount present in everyday processed foods is not enough to cause problems. However, those with gastrointestinal sensitivities should be mindful of their intake. As with any additive, moderating consumption by focusing on a diet rich in whole foods is a practical strategy for overall health. If you have ongoing concerns about digestive issues, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action. For detailed information on the European Union's re-evaluation, you can visit the EFSA website.
