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hydroxypropyl starch ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namehydroxypropyl starch
English namehydroxypropyl starch
INS/E numberINS 1440
Functional classEmulsifier, Stabilizer, Thickener
Year adopted1965
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Hydroxypropyl starch (INS 1440) is a modified starch etherified with propylene oxide; it has stable low-temperature viscosity, improved freeze-thaw stability and clarity, and resists retrogradation.

Source ​

Natural:玉米、马铃薯等食用淀粉 + 环氧丙烷

Why is it used? ​

  • Improves low-temperature and freeze-thaw stability
  • Enhances clarity and water-holding
  • Used in frozen foods, sauces and baking
  • Thickener and stabiliser
  • Anti-staling and better mouthfeel

Common Foods ​

  • Frozen foods
  • Sauces and soups
  • Bakery products
  • Meat products
  • Dairy products
  • Instant noodles

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake):Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns:

  • 须严格控制残留环氧丙烷(潜在反应物)
  • 糖尿病人须计入碳水化合物

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》;GB 29950 食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂 改性淀粉

International:

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 1440)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.892 (modified starches, hydroxypropyl)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 1440)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (1440)
  • JECFA Monograph (Hydroxypropyl starch)

In a nutshell ​

Hydroxypropyl starch is an etherified modified starch with good low-temp/freeze-thaw stability, safe with no ADI (residuals controlled).

Consumer Advice ​

Hydroxypropyl starch is a modified starch etherified with hydroxypropyl groups, offering low gelatinisation temperature, good freeze-thaw stability, and resistance to retrogradation. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in frozen foods, baked goods, sauces, and meat products. It is safe within approved limits; as a plant-derived starch product, gluten-sensitive people should still confirm the raw material source.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.