Calcium ferrocyanide
Learn what Calcium ferrocyanide (E538) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Calcium ferrocyanide?
A food additive used as an anti-caking agent, added to salt, salt substitutes, and spices, at a maximum of 20 mg/kg, either alone or in combination with sodium or potassium ferrocyanide.
Why is Calcium ferrocyanide added to food?
Calcium ferrocyanide (E538) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Spices.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 25 mg/kg body weight.
Is Calcium ferrocyanide safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in products.
Is Calcium ferrocyanide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium ferrocyanide okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Calcium ferrocyanide
- Spices
See the full list of foods that contain Calcium ferrocyanide →
How to spot Calcium ferrocyanide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E538
- Calcium ferrocyanide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- calcium terrocyanide
- calclum ferrocyanide
- caleium ferrocyanide
- calcium ferroeyanide
- ealcium ferrocyanide
- calcium ferrocyanlde
- calcium ferrocydnide
- calcium ierrocyanide
- calcium ferrocyanide
- cdlcium ferrocyanide
Better alternatives
• People with severe kidney conditions should avoid products containing calcium ferrocyanide, as it may interfere with the body's elimination processes. • Not recommended for individuals allergic to cyanide-based compounds or who have sensitivity to ferrocyanide. • Excessive use may cause side effects such as nausea, abdominal pain, and breathing difficulties due to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body. • Avoid use in combination with other medications that may interfere with calcium metabolism or affect kidney function.
Also known as
- calcium terrocyanide
- calclum ferrocyanide
- caleium ferrocyanide
- calcium ferroeyanide
- ealcium ferrocyanide
- calcium ferrocyanlde
- calcium ferrocydnide
- calcium ierrocyanide
- calcium ferrocyanide
- cdlcium ferrocyanide
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium ferrocyanide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E538 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium ferrocyanide
- Is Calcium ferrocyanide safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in products.
- Is Calcium ferrocyanide banned anywhere?
- Calcium ferrocyanide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium ferrocyanide safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Calcium ferrocyanide on a food label?
- Look for E538, Calcium ferrocyanide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: calcium terrocyanide, calclum ferrocyanide, caleium ferrocyanide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.