Calcium diglutamate

What is Calcium diglutamate?

A food additive used as a flavor enhancer. It is the calcium salt of glutamic acid. For industrial use, it is obtained through bacterial fermentation of molasses. Calcium diglutamate is used to enhance the natural flavor and taste of food. Glutamates provide the 'umami' taste, considered the fifth basic taste alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It can be added to any food, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, up to 1%, reducing the amount of salt needed. A proportion greater than 1% cannot enhance the taste further but may distort it. Some studies have highlighted a potential neurotoxic effect of glutamates on both children and adults, while other studies have not. However, the neurotoxic potential is real because glutamate (like aspartate in Aspartame) is a neurotransmitter, and the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from toxins and excess neurotransmitters, is not fully developed in children, and in adults, it may not protect all areas of the brain or may be damaged. As a result, glutamate turns into what is called an excitotoxin, which excessively stimulates neurons, ultimately destroying them.

Why is Calcium diglutamate added to food?

Calcium diglutamate (E623) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Food products, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks.

Permitted quantity: No daily dose limit.

Is Calcium diglutamate safe?

Generally, no side effects occur, and the additive is considered safe by the Joint Expert Committee of the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. However, some individuals may report symptoms such as numbness, weakness, tremors, dizziness, headaches, and palpitations ("Chinese restaurant syndrome"), or even respiratory problems, panic attacks, sudden mood changes, hyperactivity, nausea, etc.

Is Calcium diglutamate banned anywhere?

Is Calcium diglutamate okay for kids?

Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Calcium diglutamate

• Food products
• alcoholic beverages
• and soft drinks

See the full list of foods that contain Calcium diglutamate →

How to spot Calcium diglutamate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

• E623
• Calcium diglutamate

Better alternatives

• People sensitive to glutamates or food allergies should avoid products containing calcium diglutamate. • It may cause headaches, dizziness, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. • Not recommended for people with severe kidney conditions as it may affect calcium metabolism. • Avoid excessive consumption in the diet of individuals with nervous system disorders or calcium metabolism problems.

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Also known as

• calcium diqlutamate
• ealcium diglutamate
• calcium dlglutamate
• calclum diglutamate
• cdlcium diglutamate
• calcium diglutamdte
• calcium diglutamate
• caleium diglutamate
• calcium diglutdmate

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