-
DE
E509 Calcium Chloride – Food Additive Explained
E509 is the EU food additive calcium chloride, a firming agent and salt widely used in the food industry to improve texture and extend shelf life.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "E509"
E509 is the EU food additive calcium chloride, a firming agent and salt widely used in the food industry to improve texture and extend shelf life.
What is E509?
E509 refers to calcium chloride (chemical formula: CaCl₂), an inorganic salt approved as a food additive in the European Union. It belongs to the category of firming agents and salts and is widely used in food processing. Calcium chloride appears as a white, highly hygroscopic powder or granulate that dissolves readily in water.
Uses in the Food Industry
E509 is used across many food sectors to improve quality, texture, and shelf life:
- Firming agent: In canned fruits and vegetables, calcium chloride prevents softening during heat processing and maintains tissue firmness.
- Cheese production: In the manufacture of cheese, especially from pasteurized milk, E509 improves milk coagulation and promotes a firmer cheese texture.
- Tofu production: Calcium chloride is traditionally used as a coagulant in tofu manufacturing.
- Sports drinks and mineral water: Used as a mineral source for electrolyte enrichment in beverages.
- Meat processing: Applied to improve tenderness and texture of meat products.
- Molecular gastronomy: Used in modern cuisine for spherification techniques, where liquid ingredients are shaped into gel-like spheres.
Physiological Role of Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral in the human body. It plays a key role in:
- The structural integrity of bones and teeth
- Proper functioning of muscles, including the heart
- Blood clotting
- Transmission of nerve impulses
The amount of calcium consumed through E509 in a normal diet is generally small, but it can contribute to overall calcium intake.
Safety and Regulatory Status
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has assessed calcium chloride as safe for use in food. It is listed in EU Regulation No. 1333/2008 on food additives. In many applications, E509 is governed by the principle of quantum satis, meaning it may be used in the quantity technically necessary, without a fixed maximum level.
Possible Adverse Effects
At normal levels of use in food, E509 is considered well tolerated. However, in very high quantities, calcium chloride may:
- Cause gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea
- Be irritating to mucous membranes upon direct contact
- Lead to elevated blood calcium levels (hypercalcaemia) if consumed in excessive amounts
Individuals with kidney disorders or calcium metabolism disturbances should seek medical advice if consuming large amounts of calcium-enriched products.
Labelling and Identification
On food labels, this additive is declared either as E509 or by its chemical name calcium chloride. It must be listed in the ingredients according to EU labelling regulations.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of calcium chloride (E 509) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2019.
- European Union: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives.
- Biesalski, H.K. et al.: Nutritional Medicine. Georg Thieme Verlag, Stuttgart, 5th edition, 2018.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
22,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
50,00 €
Regular price:
59,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
27,90 €
Regular price:
29,90 €
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
35,90 €
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.