anti-caking agent INS 504

Magnesium Carbonates E504

acidity regulator, color retention agent, raising agent — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Magnesium carbonate (E504i), Magnesium hydroxide carbonate (E504ii)

CAS: 546-93-0 (i), 39409-82-0 (ii)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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?

Magnesium Carbonates occurs naturally in Magnesite mineral (MgCO3) and Dolomite (mixed calcium magnesium carbonate). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Magnesium Carbonates 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.

In the EU, Magnesium Carbonates has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted in various food categories including as anti-caking agent and acidity regulator.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Widely used in table salt and sports supplements.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (acceptable for use)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified (no safety concern at current use levels)

Natural Occurrence

Magnesium carbonate occurs naturally in the mineral magnesite and in dolomite rock. However, food-grade magnesium carbonate is typically synthesized to ensure purity and consistent quality.

Magnesite mineral (MgCO3)Dolomite (mixed calcium magnesium carbonate)Sea water (as dissolved ions)

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by reacting magnesium salts (usually magnesium chloride or sulfate) with sodium carbonate or by treating magnesium hydroxide with carbon dioxide. E504ii is a hydrated form containing both carbonate and hydroxide groups, often called 'basic magnesium carbonate.'

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Bulking agent, absorbent in powders and makeup.

Medical

Antacid, laxative, magnesium supplement.

Industrial

Refractories, fireproofing, rubber production, ceramics.

Household

Gymnastic chalk, rock climbing chalk, drying agent for hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magnesium Carbonates (E504)?

Magnesium Carbonates (E504) is a anti-caking agent used in food products. It is acidity regulator, color retention agent, raising agent and synthetic. Magnesium carbonate occurs naturally in the mineral magnesite and in dolomite rock. However, food-grade magnesium carbonate is typically synthesized to ensure purity and consistent quality.

Where is Magnesium Carbonates found naturally?

Magnesium Carbonates is naturally found in Magnesite mineral (MgCO3), Dolomite (mixed calcium magnesium carbonate), Sea water (as dissolved ions). Magnesium carbonate occurs naturally in the mineral magnesite and in dolomite rock. However, food-grade magnesium carbonate is typically synthesized to ensure purity and consistent quality.

What is the ADI for Magnesium Carbonates?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Magnesium Carbonates is not specified (acceptable for use) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Magnesium Carbonates?

Magnesium Carbonates is used in various food categories including Table salt and salt substitutes, Bakery wares, Soups and broths. It is used as a anti-caking agent in these products.

Is Magnesium Carbonates the same as Magnesite (mineral form)?

Yes, Magnesium Carbonates is also known as Magnesite (mineral form), Magnesia alba (E504i), Basic magnesium carbonate (E504ii). These are different names for the same substance.