Calcium hydroxide
Learn what Calcium hydroxide (E526) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Calcium hydroxide?
Food additive with the role of acidity regulator and stabilizer (hardening agent). It is used in the quantities specified in recipes in dairy products, cheeses, puddings, condensed or powdered milk, butter, and products from dehydrated whey, in spreads, various emulsions, sweet creams, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits, vegetable products, meat, fish, eggs, soups, broths, sauces, salads, bakery products, pastry, confectionery, pre-cooked rice and pasta, spices, dietary supplements, dietary products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, etc.
Why is Calcium hydroxide added to food?
Calcium hydroxide (E526) is a separation agent commonly found in: Puddings, Condensed Milk, Butter.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit.
Is Calcium hydroxide safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities used in foods.
Is Calcium hydroxide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium hydroxide okay for kids?
It is also allowed in cereal-based products intended for infants and young children in the quantities specified by recipes.
Common foods that contain Calcium hydroxide
- Puddings
- Condensed Milk
- Butter
How to spot Calcium hydroxide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E526
- Calcium hydroxide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- cdlcium hydroxide
- calclum hydroxide
- ealcium hydroxide
- caleium hydroxide
- calcium hydroxide
- calcium hydroxlde
Better alternatives
• Allergic reactions: Calcium hydroxide may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, including skin rashes, itching, or swelling. People with sensitivity to calcium or other similar chemicals should avoid products containing this additive.
Also known as
- cdlcium hydroxide
- calclum hydroxide
- ealcium hydroxide
- caleium hydroxide
- calcium hydroxide
- calcium hydroxlde
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium hydroxide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E526 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium hydroxide
- Is Calcium hydroxide safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities used in foods.
- Is Calcium hydroxide banned anywhere?
- Calcium hydroxide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium hydroxide safe for children?
- It is also allowed in cereal-based products intended for infants and young children in the quantities specified by recipes.
- How do I spot Calcium hydroxide on a food label?
- Look for E526, Calcium hydroxide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: cdlcium hydroxide, calclum hydroxide, ealcium hydroxide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.