Calcium Alginate E404
natural β Primarily seaweed-derived.
Calcium alginate
CAS: 9005-35-0
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
? Did You Know?
Calcium Alginate occurs naturally in Brown seaweed (Phaeophyceae) and Kelp (Laminaria species). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Calcium Alginate is derived from seaweed, a practice that originated centuries ago in East Asian cooking traditions.
Beyond food, Calcium Alginate is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
The calcium salt of alginic acid, extracted from brown seaweed. Forms strong gels and is particularly useful for creating firm textures in restructured foods.
Manufacturing
Produced by treating sodium alginate with calcium chloride or calcium hydroxide, which causes immediate gelation. Can also be extracted directly from seaweed using calcium-containing solutions.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in wound dressings and face mask sheets.
Used extensively in wound care products and hemostatic dressings.
Used in textile printing and as a binder in welding rods.
Used in molecular gastronomy for spherification