Magnesium carbonates
Learn what Magnesium carbonates (E504) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Magnesium carbonates?
Food additive with stabilizing, acidity-regulating, and anti-caking properties, derived from magnesium hydroxide. It is also used as a carrier for other additives. It is added to products such as dehydrated whey, salt, powdered sugar, dairy products, cheeses, milk-based desserts, ice cream, emulsified fats, vegetable, fruit, meat, fish, egg products, cereals, pasta, baked goods, pastries, confectionery, sauces, condiments, salads, soups, broths, dietary products, dietary supplements, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, etc.
Why is Magnesium carbonates added to food?
Magnesium carbonates (E504) is a hardening agent commonly found in: Dairy desserts, cakes.
Permitted quantity: The daily intake limit is not restricted.
Is Magnesium carbonates safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at quantities used in food.
Is Magnesium carbonates banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Magnesium carbonates okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and small children.
Common foods that contain Magnesium carbonates
- Dairy desserts
- cakes
See the full list of foods that contain Magnesium carbonates →
How to spot Magnesium carbonates on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E504
- Magnesium carbonates
Common misspellings to watch for:
- maqnesium carbonates
- magnesium carbondtes
- mdgnesium carbonates
- magne$ium carbonates
- magneslum carbonates
- magnesium cdrbonates
- magnesium carbonates
- magnesium earbonates
- magnesium carbonate$
Better alternatives
• People with kidney failure should avoid products containing magnesium carbonate as it can affect kidney function and lead to excessive magnesium accumulation in the body. • Large doses of magnesium carbonate may lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea or abdominal pain. • Long-term use of magnesium carbonate in large quantities may interfere with the absorption of other essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus. • It is also recommended to avoid using it in combination with other magnesium supplements or medications containing magnesium to prevent overdose. • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming products containing magnesium carbonate to prevent potential adverse effects on maternal and child health.
Also known as
- maqnesium carbonates
- magnesium carbondtes
- mdgnesium carbonates
- magne$ium carbonates
- magneslum carbonates
- magnesium cdrbonates
- magnesium carbonates
- magnesium earbonates
- magnesium carbonate$
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Magnesium carbonates? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E504 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Magnesium carbonates
- Is Magnesium carbonates safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at quantities used in food.
- Is Magnesium carbonates banned anywhere?
- Magnesium carbonates is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Magnesium carbonates safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and small children.
- How do I spot Magnesium carbonates on a food label?
- Look for E504, Magnesium carbonates in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: maqnesium carbonates, magnesium carbondtes, mdgnesium carbonates.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.