Food Additives Encyclopedia

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calcium carbonates ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namecalcium carbonates
English namecalcium carbonates
INS/E numberINS 170
Functional classColour
Year adoptedTo be added.
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Calcium carbonates (INS 170) are white inorganic salts obtained from natural limestone/calcite or by precipitation; they serve as a white colour, anti-caking agent, raising agent and calcium source.

Source ​

Natural：石灰石、方解石等天然矿物（亦可化学沉淀法制得）

Why is it used? ​

  • Provides white colouring (e.g. sugar coatings, chewing gum)
  • Anti-caking to prevent powder clumping
  • Raising agent / acidity aid
  • Dietary calcium supplementation
  • Improves texture of gum and confectionery

Common Foods ​

  • Chewing gum
  • Confectionery and sugar coatings
  • Bakery products
  • Table salt (anti-caking)
  • Calcium-fortified products

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

  • 高剂量可能引起轻微胃肠不适
  • 需控制铅等重金属杂质

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760（碳酸钙）

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 170)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1191 (Calcium carbonate, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 170)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (Calcium carbonate, 170)

In a nutshell ​

Calcium carbonate is a highly safe white mineral additive that colours, anti-cakes and supplies calcium.

Consumer Advice ​

Calcium carbonate is a white powder of mineral origin that serves as a whitening agent, a calcium fortifier, an anticaking agent and an acidity regulator in foods such as sweets and flour. It is approved in China, the EU (E170) and the United States and is considered safe at approved levels; it is also a common source of calcium in fortified foods.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.