E553a - synthetic magnesium silicates

Thickeners give body to liquid and semi-liquid products, replacing the viscosity that would otherwise come from fat or starch. Many are the same gums used as stabilisers (guar, xanthan, locust bean) along with modified starches (E1400 series). Most thickeners are well-tolerated. The modified starches are sometimes flagged for digestion-related symptoms in sensitive individuals but are not on UK or EU restriction lists.