Calcium Hydroxide E526
firming agent, processing aid, pH adjuster — Primarily mineral-derived.
Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2)
CAS: 1305-62-0
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 Hydroxide occurs naturally in Portlandite mineral (rare) and Formed when calcium oxide reacts with water. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Calcium Hydroxide 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 Hydroxide 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)
Permitted as processing aid and firming agent; excess is washed away or neutralized.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Widely used in traditional food processing, especially nixtamalization and pickling.
Japan (MHLW)
Used in traditional food processing.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
While calcium hydroxide can form naturally, commercial production is by reacting quicklime (calcium oxide) with water. The calcium oxide itself comes from heating limestone.
Manufacturing
Produced by reacting calcium oxide (quicklime) with water in an exothermic 'slaking' reaction. The calcium oxide is obtained by heating limestone (calcium carbonate) to high temperatures. Food-grade calcium hydroxide is purified to remove impurities.
Applications Beyond Food
Rarely used; pH adjuster in some formulations.
Dental applications (root canal treatment), antacid formulations.
Cement and mortar, water treatment, leather tanning, soil stabilization, plaster.
Traditional whitewash, pickling (making pickles crisp).