sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids |
| English name | sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids |
| INS/E number | INS 470a |
| Functional class | Emulsifier, Stabiliser, Anti-caking agent |
| Year adopted | 1973 |
| Approved by | European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids (e.g. sodium stearate, potassium palmitate, calcium stearate) are soaps formed by reacting food-grade fatty acids with the corresponding alkali/alkaline-earth salts. They are anticaking agents, emulsifiers and stabilisers with strong hydrophobicity, used for anticaking and emulsification.
Source
Industrial：脂肪酸与钠、钾或钙的氢氧化物/氧化物中和反应生成相应脂肪酸盐，再洗涤、干燥、粉碎
Why is it used?
- Acts as an anticaking agent preventing caking
- Emulsifies and stabilises oil-water systems
- Serves as stabiliser and release agent
- Improves processing flow and appearance
Common Foods
- Seasoning powders
- Confectionery
- Bakery products
- Margarine
- Dietary supplements
- Instant powders
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 470a)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1440 (sodium/calcium stearate)
- Codex GSFA (INS 470a)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (470a)
- JECFA Monograph (1973)
In a nutshell
Sodium/potassium/calcium salts of fatty acids are hydrophobic anticaking and emulsifying agents used to prevent caking and stabilise systems.
Consumer Advice
These are sodium, potassium and calcium salts of fatty acids, used in food as emulsifiers, anti-caking agents and release agents to blend oil and water and keep powders free-flowing. The fatty acids are usually from vegetable oils (palm or soybean), though animal fats are occasionally used; commercial products are mostly plant-based. They are safe at approved levels and not common allergens. Vegan, halal and kosher consumers should look for products labeled as plant-derived or carrying a relevant certification.
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.