E999 Quillaia extract (Soapbark extract)

E999EmulsifiersOrigin: Plant

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The short answer

Quillaia extract (E999) is a plant-based foaming agent from the soapbark tree that gives soft drinks their head. It is vegan and gluten-free, and it is used in small amounts, though its saponins can irritate the gut in large doses.

66/100

Use in moderation

Safe in small amounts; may bother some people or raise blood sugar.

E-numberE999

Comes fromPlant

What it doesEmulsifiers

Glycemic index—

Daily limitNot set

Also calledE999, Quillaja extract

Rules by country

🇺🇸 US FDAApproved

🇪🇺 European UnionApproved with limits

🇨🇦 Health CanadaApproved

CaliforniaNo extra rules

Permitted in the US and Canada as a foaming agent in beverages. The EU allows it in set drinks, within limits.

Daily limit: Experts haven’t set a number because normal food amounts are far below any level of concern.

What is it?

Quillaia extract is a mix of saponins, the soapy compounds that foam in water. It keeps bubbles stable and helps flavor oils mix into the drink. It is a traditional ingredient in soft drinks.

Where it comes from: Made from the inner bark of the Chilean soapbark tree, Quillaja saponaria. Water extracts the saponins, which are then dried into a powder or syrup.

Why it’s in food

Gives root beer and cola a foamy head
Helps flavor oils mix into soft drinks
Offers a plant-based foaming option

Often found in

Root beerColaGinger aleFlavored sparkling drinks

Also listed as: E999, Quillaja extract, Quillaja saponins

Health & gut impact

Gut irritationConcern

Saponins can irritate the lining of the gut and cause nausea at high doses. The amounts in drinks are small, and the concern is mainly with large amounts of the raw extract.

JECFA evaluation of quillaia

What can I use instead?

Yucca extract

Ratio: About 1:1 for foam

Best for: Root beer and soft drinks with a head

Gum arabic (E414)

Ratio: Varies by flavor oil

Best for: Flavor emulsions

More emulsifiers:

Acetylated monoglycerides E472aAcetylated monoglycerides (E472a) are fat-based emulsifiers that help bread hold air and keep whipped toppings stable. They are common in bakery and generally considered safe; check the source fat if you avoid animal ingredients.Use in moderation Ammonium phosphatides E442Ammonium phosphatides (E442) are a chocolate emulsifier made from vegetable oil. They are an alternative to soy lecithin when a recipe needs chocolate to flow, and they are considered safe.Generally safe Brominated vegetable oil (BVO)Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) kept the citrus flavor from floating to the top of some sodas. The FDA banned it in 2024 because of thyroid effects, so check older or imported citrus drinks.Best to avoid Calcium stearoyl lactylate E482Calcium stearoyl lactylate (E482) is a dough strengthener that helps bread rise and stay soft. Its fat source varies, so vegans and people following halal or kosher rules should check the label.Use in moderation

Common questions

Is quillaia natural?

Yes. It comes from the bark of the soapbark tree and is extracted with water.

Why does root beer foam?

Quillaia extract creates a long-lasting foam, a job that egg-based or other foaming agents would do in other recipes.

Is Quillaia extract safe?

Use in moderation (66/100). Permitted in the US and Canada as a foaming agent in beverages. The EU allows it in set drinks, within limits.

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Scientific sources & regulatory citations

EFSA OpenFoodTox: E999
JECFA evaluation of quillaia

INS 999