Magnesium oxide
Learn what Magnesium oxide (E530) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Magnesium oxide?
A food additive used as an anti-caking agent. It is used in the amounts specified in recipes for dairy products, cheese, puddings, condensed or powdered milk, butter, and products made from dehydrated whey. It is also used in spreadable fats, various emulsions, sweet creams, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits, vegetable products, meat, fish, eggs, soups, broths, sauces, salads, bakery products, pastries and confectionery, pre-cooked rice and pasta, spices, dietary supplements, diet products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and other powdered food products.
Why is Magnesium oxide added to food?
Magnesium oxide (E530) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Cheese, dairy products, powdered milk, margarine.
Permitted quantity: There is no daily limit for consumption.
Is Magnesium oxide safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in food products.
Is Magnesium oxide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Magnesium oxide okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Magnesium oxide
- Cheese
- dairy products
- powdered milk
- margarine
How to spot Magnesium oxide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E530
- Magnesium oxide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- maqnesium oxide
- magneslum oxide
- magne$ium oxide
- magnesium oxide
- mdgnesium oxide
- magnesium oxlde
Better alternatives
• People with renal insufficiency should avoid excessive use of magnesium oxide, as it may affect electrolyte balance and kidney function. • Not recommended for individuals with high magnesium levels in the blood (hypermagnesemia), as it can exacerbate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. • Excessive use may cause side effects such as severe diarrhea or abdominal cramps. • Avoid use with blood pressure-lowering medications or drugs affecting kidney function.
Also known as
- maqnesium oxide
- magneslum oxide
- magne$ium oxide
- magnesium oxide
- mdgnesium oxide
- magnesium oxlde
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Magnesium oxide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E530 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Magnesium oxide
- Is Magnesium oxide safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in food products.
- Is Magnesium oxide banned anywhere?
- Magnesium oxide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Magnesium oxide safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Magnesium oxide on a food label?
- Look for E530, Magnesium oxide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: maqnesium oxide, magneslum oxide, magne$ium oxide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.