calcium oxide
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | calcium oxide |
| English name | calcium oxide |
| INS/E number | INS 529 |
| Functional class | Acidity regulator, Flour treatment agent |
| Year adopted | 1965 |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Calcium oxide (quicklime) is an inorganic base used mainly as a processing aid, acidity regulator and firming agent. In water it converts to calcium hydroxide, exerting alkalinity; it is used in produce processing and traditional foods.
Source
Industrial：由石灰石高温煅烧分解制得氧化钙
Why is it used?
- Serves as a processing aid for produce
- Adjusts pH as an acidity regulator
- Firms tissue as a firming agent
- Used in traditional alkaline foods
Common Foods
- Traditional alkaline foods
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Century-egg processing
- Maize processing
- Saccharification and brewing
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Concerns：
- 操作需防护，避免直接接触
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》（加工助剂）
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 529)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1196 (calcium oxide, GRASS)
- Codex GSFA (INS 529)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (529)
In a nutshell
Calcium oxide is a processing aid and acidity regulator that becomes calcium hydroxide in water.
Consumer Advice
Food-grade calcium oxide (quicklime) is used as an acidity regulator, firming agent and calcium fortificant, and in some processing aids and food-container desiccants. It turns into calcium hydroxide in water. It supplies calcium and is neutralised during processing. Use to food-grade standards is safe; the dry chemical is corrosive on direct contact, but it never appears that way in food.
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.