Magnesium stearate
Learn what Magnesium stearate (E572) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Magnesium stearate?
Magnesium stearate is used to bind sugar in hard candies, such as mint candies, and is a common ingredient in formulas for children. It is derived from both animal and vegetable oils. Some dietary supplements specify that the magnesium stearate used is vegetable-based.
Why is Magnesium stearate added to food?
Magnesium stearate (E572) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Candies.
Permitted quantity: Currently, there are no restrictions on the consumption of magnesium stearate, and no specific daily limit needs to be followed. However, moderation is recommended.
Is Magnesium stearate safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food products.
Is Magnesium stearate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Magnesium stearate
- Candies
See the full list of foods that contain Magnesium stearate →
How to spot Magnesium stearate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E572
- Magnesium stearate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- magnesium steardte
- magneslum stearate
- mdgnesium stearate
- maqnesium stearate
- magnesium $tearate
- magne$ium stearate
- magnesium stedrate
- magnesium stearate
Better alternatives
• Digestive conditions: Magnesium stearate is frequently used as a lubricating agent in dietary supplements and may cause gastric discomfort or diarrhea in some cases. People with digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, should exercise caution. • Excess magnesium: Excessive magnesium consumption can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal cramps. Individuals taking magnesium supplements or consuming high-magnesium foods should be cautious about the amount of magnesium stearate consumed.
Also known as
- magnesium steardte
- magneslum stearate
- mdgnesium stearate
- maqnesium stearate
- magnesium $tearate
- magne$ium stearate
- magnesium stedrate
- magnesium stearate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Magnesium stearate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E572 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Magnesium stearate
- Is Magnesium stearate safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food products.
- Is Magnesium stearate banned anywhere?
- Magnesium stearate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Magnesium stearate on a food label?
- Look for E572, Magnesium stearate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: magnesium steardte, magneslum stearate, mdgnesium stearate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.