Food Additives Encyclopedia

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calcium formate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namecalcium formate
English namecalcium formate
INS/E numberINS 238
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1967
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Calcium formate is the calcium salt of formic acid, used as a preservative, acidulant and quality improver, and also in animal feed.

Source ​

Industrial：甲酸与氢氧化钙（或碳酸钙）中和反应制得甲酸钙

Why is it used? ​

  • Antimicrobial preservative effect
  • Provides calcium and adjusts acidity
  • Improves dough and baking quality
  • Used in animal feed as preservative/acidulant

Common Foods ​

  • Bakery products
  • Animal feed
  • Some acidic foods
  • Processing aid

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：not limited (内源性代谢物)

Concerns：

  • 高浓度有刺激性
  • 主要用于饲料及特定食品

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 2760 作为加工助剂/品质改良剂

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 238)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1192 (Calcium formate, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 238)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Calcium formate)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI not limited)

In a nutshell ​

Calcium formate is the calcium salt of formic acid, combining preservation, acidification and calcium supply with safe metabolism.

Consumer Advice ​

Calcium formate is the calcium salt of formic acid, used mainly as an animal-feed additive and industrial chemical, not as an approved food additive. It is not authorised for food in the EU and is not listed in China's GB 2760. Compliant foods should not contain it; consumers need not worry about it in normal foods, but if it appears, avoid the product.

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.