INS 415 is the code for xanthan gum
Made by fermenting sugar with a bacterium. Thickens sauces and dressings and holds gluten-free baking together.
- What it does
- Thickens it A thickener
- Vegetarian?
- Depends on the maker Source not stated on the label
- In the Zabel score
- Takes no points off Method 1.0.0
- In our catalogue
- 268 packs List it in their ingredients
Is INS 415 vegetarian?
It depends on the maker. INS 415 can be made from plant or animal sources and the label does not say which, so the code tells you nothing either way. The green or brown mark on the pack is the declaration to go by.
| Food category | Share | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Sauces and condiments | 31% | |
| Biscuits and cookies | 19% | |
| Ice cream and frozen desserts | 15% | |
| Milk and dairy drinks | 7% | |
| Noodles and pasta | 7% | |
| Everything else | 21% |
Counted from the 268 packs in Zabel's catalogue that list INS 415, 226 of which have a food category so far. Counted 4 Nov 2026.
What does the evidence say about INS 415?
We grade an additive by the evidence about it, not by whether it sounds like a chemical, and we make no claim about whether a pack complies with FSSAI rules.
No numerical limit and no identified concern at food levels. It is a soluble fibre; large amounts have a laxative effect.
Does Zabel mark INS 415 down?
No. On the evidence we hold it takes nothing off the score (method 1.0.0). Read the method.
Questions people search
What is INS 415?
INS 415 is the code for xanthan gum, a thickener. Made by fermenting sugar with a bacterium. Thickens sauces and dressings and holds gluten-free baking together.
Is INS 415 vegetarian?
It depends on the maker. INS 415 can be made from plant or animal sources and the label does not say which, so the code tells you nothing either way. The green or brown mark on the pack is the declaration to go by.
What does the evidence say about INS 415?
No numerical limit and no identified concern at food levels. It is a soluble fibre; large amounts have a laxative effect.
Does Zabel mark INS 415 down?
No. On the evidence we hold it takes nothing off the score (method 1.0.0).
Sources
- 01 Evaluations of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) WHO / FAO, 2024
- 02 Zabel catalogue - pack counts, food categories and the codes printed alongside 4 Nov 2026
Entry updated 19 Sep 2026 · Not reviewed by a dietitian yet · Report an error on this page
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