firming agent INS 509

Calcium Chloride E509

sequestrant, stabilizer, thickener — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved
🇺🇸 USA: Approved
🇯🇵 Japan: Approved
🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved
🇨🇦 Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Calcium chloride (CaCl2)

CAS: 10043-52-4

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?

Calcium Chloride occurs naturally in Sea water and brine and Limestone caves (as solution). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Calcium Chloride 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, Calcium Chloride 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 as firming agent and stabilizer.

Official EFSA Link
🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Widely used in food processing and molecular gastronomy.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Commonly used in tofu production.

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

Calcium chloride occurs naturally in brine and sea water, but is commercially produced as a byproduct of the Solvay process or by treating limestone with hydrochloric acid.

Sea water and brineLimestone caves (as solution)Some mineral springs

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced as a byproduct of the Solvay process (sodium carbonate production) or by reacting calcium carbonate (limestone) or calcium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid. Purified through crystallization and drying.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Viscosity regulator, stabilizer in personal care products.

Medical

Electrolyte replenisher, calcium supplement, treatment for hypocalcemia.

Industrial

De-icing roads and sidewalks, concrete acceleration, desiccant, dust control on unpaved roads.

Household

DampRid moisture absorber, aquarium water hardener.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calcium Chloride (E509)?
Calcium Chloride (E509) is a firming agent used in food products. It is sequestrant, stabilizer, thickener and synthetic. Calcium chloride occurs naturally in brine and sea water, but is commercially produced as a byproduct of the Solvay process or by treating limestone with hydrochloric acid.
Where is Calcium Chloride found naturally?
Calcium Chloride is naturally found in Sea water and brine, Limestone caves (as solution), Some mineral springs. Calcium chloride occurs naturally in brine and sea water, but is commercially produced as a byproduct of the Solvay process or by treating limestone with hydrochloric acid.
What is the ADI for Calcium Chloride?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Calcium Chloride 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 Calcium Chloride?
Calcium Chloride is used in various food categories including Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables, Fresh meat. It is used as a firming agent in these products.
Is Calcium Chloride the same as Calcium salt?
Yes, Calcium Chloride is also known as Calcium salt, CaCl2, Dowflake (commercial name). These are different names for the same substance.