Digestoa
Additive · Thickener

Guar gum (E412)

Guar gum (E412) is a thickener that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskLow risk
TypeThickener
Found insauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts
ConcernsDigestive discomfort in large amounts

What is Guar gum?

Guar gum (E412) is a thickener — used to thicken and stabilise texture.

Is Guar gum bad for you?

Guar gum is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Guar gum?

Sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Guar gum. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Look for products thickened with pectin (E440) or with simpler ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E412 the same as Guar gum?
Yes — E412 is the international additive (E-number) code for Guar gum.
Is Guar gum bad for you?
Digestoa rates Guar gum (E412) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Guar gum?
Reported concerns include: Digestive discomfort in large amounts.
What foods contain Guar gum?
Sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts.
How can I avoid Guar gum?
Check the ingredients list for "Guar gum" or "E412", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related thickener additives

Carrageenan (E407)Locust bean gum (E410)Xanthan gum (E415)Acacia gum (E414)Pectin (E440)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.