Magnesium chloride
Learn what Magnesium chloride (E511) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Magnesium chloride?
Food additive with the role of color stabilizer and hardening agent, naturally found as a component of sea salt. It is also used as a support for other additives. It is used in dairy products, both matured and non-matured cheeses, whey products, ice cream, spreadable fats, water-oil emulsions, sweet creams, puddings, processed fruits and vegetables preserved in various ways, meat, fish, eggs, cereals, bakery products, confectionery, pasta, breakfast cereals, beer, wine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, nutritional supplements, dietary products, sauces, spices, salads, etc.
Why is Magnesium chloride added to food?
Magnesium chloride (E511) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Ice Cream, Spreadable Fats.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit.
Is Magnesium chloride safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported for the quantities used in food.
Is Magnesium chloride banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Magnesium chloride okay for kids?
Not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Magnesium chloride
- Ice Cream
- Spreadable Fats
See the full list of foods that contain Magnesium chloride →
How to spot Magnesium chloride on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E511
- Magnesium chloride
Common misspellings to watch for:
- maqnesium chloride
- magnesium chloride
- mdgnesium chloride
- magne$ium chloride
- magnesium chlorlde
- magneslum chloride
- magnesium ehloride
Better alternatives
• Sensitivity to magnesium: Individuals with sensitivity or intolerance to magnesium should avoid products containing magnesium chloride, as it may cause adverse reactions such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or gastrointestinal discomfort. • Renal conditions: Individuals with severe kidney conditions should be cautious with magnesium chloride intake, as kidneys may have difficulty processing magnesium, which can lead to its accumulation in the body. • Excess magnesium: Excessive consumption of magnesium chloride can lead to hypermagnesemia, a condition characterized by elevated magnesium levels in the blood. This can cause symptoms such as weakness, shallow breathing, arrhythmias, or even cardiac arrest in severe cases. • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Although magnesium chloride is considered safe in small amounts, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming products containing this additive.
Also known as
- maqnesium chloride
- magnesium chloride
- mdgnesium chloride
- magne$ium chloride
- magnesium chlorlde
- magneslum chloride
- magnesium ehloride
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Magnesium chloride? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E511 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Magnesium chloride
- Is Magnesium chloride safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported for the quantities used in food.
- Is Magnesium chloride banned anywhere?
- Magnesium chloride is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Magnesium chloride safe for children?
- Not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Magnesium chloride on a food label?
- Look for E511, Magnesium chloride in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: maqnesium chloride, magnesium chloride, mdgnesium chloride.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.