Food Additives Encyclopedia

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calcium ferrocyanide ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namecalcium ferrocyanide
English namecalcium ferrocyanide
INS/E numberINS 538
Functional classAnti-caking agent
Year adopted1965
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Calcium ferrocyanide is an iron-cyanide complex salt used mainly as an anticaking agent in salt and similar foods. Like the sodium and potassium salts, it is stable in stomach acid and releases virtually no free cyanide.

Source ​

Industrial：由氰化物与亚铁盐在碱性条件下络合生成亚铁氰化钙

Why is it used? ​

  • Acts as an anticaking agent preventing salt caking
  • Keeps powders free-flowing
  • Used in salted foods and seasonings
  • Effective at very low levels

Common Foods ​

  • Table salt and salt substitutes
  • Salted foods
  • Powdered seasonings
  • Pickles
  • Instant soups

Safety ​

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

Concerns：

  • 强酸性下可能分解，应避免与强酸共存
  • 按规定使用量使用

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 26878 食盐中允许使用

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 538)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.490 (ferrocyanides in salt)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 538)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (538)

In a nutshell ​

Calcium ferrocyanide is a common anticaking agent in salt, safe as a stable complex.

Consumer Advice ​

Calcium ferrocyanide is an anticaking agent added mainly to table salt and other powdered foods to keep them free-flowing by preventing clumping. It is an inorganic salt used in extremely small amounts. Despite the word 'cyanide' in its name, it is very stable and does not release toxic cyanide at approved usage levels, so it is considered safe when consumed as part of a normal diet.

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.