Calcium sulfate
Learn what Calcium sulfate (E516) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Calcium sulfate?
A food additive used as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, thickening agent, anti-caking agent, strengthening agent, and sequestrant, derived from calcium salts and sulfuric acid, naturally occurring as a mineral. It is also used as a carrier for other additives. It is used in the prescribed amounts in dairy products, matured or processed cheeses, whey products, ice cream, spreads, emulsions like oil-water, sweet creams, puddings, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, cereals, bakery products, confectionery, pasta, breakfast cereals, beer, wine, other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, dietary supplements, diet products, sauces, spices, salads, etc.
Why is Calcium sulfate added to food?
Calcium sulfate (E516) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Dairy products, matured cheeses, emulsions.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit is set.
Is Calcium sulfate safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food.
Is Calcium sulfate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium sulfate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Calcium sulfate
- Dairy products
- matured cheeses
- emulsions
How to spot Calcium sulfate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E516
- Calcium sulfate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- calcium sulfdte
- caleium sulfate
- calcium suliate
- calcium sultate
- calclum sulfate
- ealcium sulfate
- calcium $ulfate
- cdlcium sulfate
- calcium sulfate
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal irritation. • People with severe renal insufficiency should avoid it, as it can lead to calcium accumulation in the body. • Not recommended for individuals with hypercalcemia or parathyroid disorders. • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use.
Also known as
- calcium sulfdte
- caleium sulfate
- calcium suliate
- calcium sultate
- calclum sulfate
- ealcium sulfate
- calcium $ulfate
- cdlcium sulfate
- calcium sulfate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium sulfate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E516 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium sulfate
- Is Calcium sulfate safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food.
- Is Calcium sulfate banned anywhere?
- Calcium sulfate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium sulfate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Calcium sulfate on a food label?
- Look for E516, Calcium sulfate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: calcium sulfdte, caleium sulfate, calcium suliate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.