This fine print is not about a new ingredient, but about the conditions of use of several that are already in thousands of technical data sheets.
Regulation (EU) 2026/196 revises the specifications and conditions of use of a group of very common food additives: carrageenan (E407), locust bean gum (E410), guar gum (E412), gum arabic (E414), xanthan gum (E415), pectins (E440) and starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450).
It adjusts the microbiological criteria and the limits for heavy metals and contaminants in their specifications, and tightens the conditions of use for foods intended for infants and young children and for food for special medical purposes.
It has been applicable since August 18, 2026, with a transitional regime: batches of these additives already lawfully placed on the market before that date may continue to be added to foods until stocks are exhausted, with staggered compliance deadlines until 2028. The exception is guar gum (E412) in infant formula: from that date it can no longer be added.
For those who formulate with hydrocolloids or modified starches, the point to review is not just the ingredient specification: it is whether the batch you have in your warehouse falls within the transitional period or already has to meet the new specification.
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Frequently asked questions
Which additives does Regulation (EU) 2026/196 affect?
Regulation (EU) 2026/196 revises the specifications and conditions of use of a group of very common food additives: carrageenan (E407), locust bean gum (E410), guar gum (E412), gum arabic (E414), xanthan gum (E415), pectins (E440) and starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450). It adjusts the microbiological criteria and the limits for heavy metals and contaminants in their specifications, and tightens the conditions of use for foods intended for infants and young children and for food for special medical purposes.
Since when does it apply, and what transitional regime does it have?
It has been applicable since August 18, 2026, with a transitional regime: batches of these additives already lawfully placed on the market before that date may continue to be added to foods until stocks are exhausted, with staggered compliance deadlines until 2028. The exception is guar gum (E412) in infant formula: from that date it can no longer be added.
What should be reviewed when formulating with hydrocolloids or modified starches?
For those who formulate with hydrocolloids or modified starches, the point to review is not just the ingredient specification: it is whether the batch you have in your warehouse falls within the transitional period or already has to meet the new specification.
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