Calcium Carbonate E170
inorganic — Primarily mineral.
Calcium carbonate
CAS: 471-34-1
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate (E170) is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, occurring naturally as limestone, chalk, marble, and calcite, and is the primary mineral component of shells, coral, and pearls. For food use, calcium carbonate is produced by mining natural deposits or by precipitation from calcium chloride and sodium carbonate. It serves multiple functions in food: as a white colorant, calcium supplement, firming agent for fruits and vegetables, anti-caking agent in powdered foods, and acidity regulator. It is also the main ingredient in antacid medications. JECFA considers calcium carbonate acceptable without a specified ADI for food use, and it is approved across the EU, USA, Japan, Canada, and Australia/NZ as a generally recognized safe substance with important nutritional value as a calcium source.
? Did You Know?
Calcium Carbonate occurs naturally in Limestone rocks and Marble. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Calcium Carbonate is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Calcium Carbonate has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Approved for use in multiple food categories
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Widely used as a color additive, nutrient supplement, and anticaking agent
Japan (MHLW)
Also approved as a nutritional fortification agent
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
One of the most abundant minerals on Earth, naturally occurring in sedimentary rocks, shells, and skeletal remains of marine organisms.
Manufacturing
Extracted from natural limestone or marble deposits through quarrying, followed by grinding and purification. Can also be produced synthetically through precipitation from calcium hydroxide and carbon dioxide.
Applications Beyond Food
Used as a bulking agent, opacifier, and abrasive in toothpaste and cosmetics.
Widely used as an antacid, calcium supplement, and tablet excipient.
Used in construction materials (cement, lime), paper manufacturing, and as a filler in plastics and paints.
Used in cleaning products, antacids, and as a calcium supplement.