Foaming Agent
Also known as: aerating agent, whipping agent
Without specifying a particular agent, the safety profile cannot be characterized. Some foaming agents (e.g., quillaia extract E999, methylcellulose) are well-studied and approved; others may have specific concerns.
What it is
Generic umbrella term referring to any substance used to produce or stabilize foam in a food product (e.g., albumin, soy protein, lecithin, methylcellulose, quillaia extract).
Creates or stabilizes a uniform dispersion of gas bubbles in a liquid or solid food.
What regulators actually say
"Foaming agents are defined as substances which make it possible to form a homogeneous dispersion of a gaseous phase in a liquid or solid foodstuff, and authorized only when listed by specific identity in the EU positive list."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Specific foaming agents regulated under 21 CFR Part 172/184 by individual identity
European Union — EFSA
Specific foaming agents authorized by E-number under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008
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