magnesium stearate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 硬脂酸镁(deepl翻译) |
| English name | magnesium stearate |
| INS/E number | INS 470 |
| Functional class | Emulsifier, Stabiliser |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ) |
What is it?
magnesium stearate (INS 470) is a Emulsifier, Stabilizer food additive. Allows immiscible liquids (e.g. oil and water) to form a stable uniform system, improving texture.Used to keep the physical state of foods stable, preventing separation, sedimentation or syneresis.
Source
Natural：Some derive from natural raw materials (e.g. soy lecithin, egg-yolk phospholipids).Mostly natural gums, proteins or polysaccharides (e.g. gelatin, pectin, locust bean gum).
Industrial：Many are made by esterifying glycerol with fatty acids or further derivatisation (e.g. monoglycerides, spans, tweens).Some are physically or chemically modified (e.g. carboxymethyl cellulose, modified starches).
Why is it used?
- Stabilise oil-water emulsions
- Improve mouthfeel and structure
- Prevent separation
- Maintain homogeneity
- Prevent syneresis and sedimentation
- Improve texture and water retention
Common Foods
- Margarine
- Ice cream
- Bakery
- Chocolate
- Sauces
- Yoghurt
- Beverages
- Jelly
Safety
Largely metabolised in the gut; generally safe within permitted use; JECFA sets ADI where applicable.Most act as dietary fibre or inert colloids and are safe within permitted use.
Metabolism：Metabolic pathways vary by substance; generally the material is metabolised or excreted normally.
Concerns：
- Use within permitted levels
- Sensitive individuals should check the ingredient list
Usage Standard
China：依据 GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》确定使用范围与最大使用量；具体限值随食品类别而异。
International：
- China GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard for Uses of Food Additives：https://www.cfsa.net.cn/
- Codex GSFA General Standard for Food Additives：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/codex-alimentarius/en/
- FAO/WHO JECFA (Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives)：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/jecfa/en/
- US FDA Substances Added to Food：https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/substances-added-food-previously-food-additive-status-list
- EU EFSA Food Additives：https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-additives
In a nutshell
magnesium stearate is a Emulsifier, Stabilizer, safe for use in food production within permitted limits.
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.