Glycerol Esters Of Wood Rosin
Also known as: E445, Glycerol ester of wood rosin, glyceryl abietate, ester gum
GEWR is approved by both FDA (21 CFR 172.735) and EFSA. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation found 'no safety concern' at reported use levels but downgraded the ADI to temporary (12.5 mg/kg bw/day) pending reproductive/developmental toxicity data, which is why this is treated as moderate rather than low.
What it is
Glycerol Esters of Wood Rosin (GEWR / ester gum) — esterified product of glycerol and rosin acids from pine tree wood.
Density adjuster / weighting agent in citrus-flavored beverages to keep flavor oils dispersed; also a glazing agent.
Why it's flagged
- EFSA temporary ADI pending additional toxicity data
What regulators actually say
"Given the absence of reproductive and developmental toxicity data, the current acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 12.5 mg/kg body weight per day for glycerol esters of wood rosins as established by the SCF in 1994 should be temporary."
"Glycerol ester of wood rosin may be safely used in food in accordance with the following conditions..."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted food additive (21 CFR 172.735)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E 445; temporary ADI 12.5 mg/kg bw/day
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