anti-caking agent INS 530

Magnesium Oxide E530

acidity regulator, color retention agent — Primarily mineral or synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Magnesium oxide (MgO)

CAS: 1309-48-4

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?

Magnesium Oxide occurs naturally in Periclase mineral (rare) and Sea water (as dissolved magnesium ions). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Magnesium Oxide 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 Oxide 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 as anti-caking agent and acidity regulator in various food categories.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Used as anti-caking agent and dietary supplement.

🇯🇵

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

While magnesium oxide occurs naturally as the rare mineral periclase, commercial production is from heating magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

Periclase mineral (rare)Sea water (as dissolved magnesium ions)

Manufacturing

Method: thermal decomposition

Produced by heating magnesium carbonate (magnesite) or magnesium hydroxide to high temperatures, driving off carbon dioxide or water respectively, leaving magnesium oxide. Also produced from sea water by precipitation and calcination.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Bulking agent, absorbent in powders.

Medical

Antacid, laxative, magnesium supplement.

Industrial

Refractory materials, insulation, fertilizers, rubber production, animal feed supplements.

Household

Milk of Magnesia (suspension in water for antacid/laxative use).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magnesium Oxide (E530)?

Magnesium Oxide (E530) is a anti-caking agent used in food products. It is acidity regulator, color retention agent and mineral or synthetic. While magnesium oxide occurs naturally as the rare mineral periclase, commercial production is from heating magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

Where is Magnesium Oxide found naturally?

Magnesium Oxide is naturally found in Periclase mineral (rare), Sea water (as dissolved magnesium ions). While magnesium oxide occurs naturally as the rare mineral periclase, commercial production is from heating magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

What is the ADI for Magnesium Oxide?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Magnesium Oxide 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 Oxide?

Magnesium Oxide is used in various food categories including Cocoa and chocolate products, Herbs, spices, seasonings. It is used as a anti-caking agent in these products.

Is Magnesium Oxide the same as Magnesia?

Yes, Magnesium Oxide is also known as Magnesia, Calcined magnesia, Periclase (mineral form). These are different names for the same substance.