Calcium Ferrocyanide E538
crystallization aid — Primarily synthetic.
Calcium ferrocyanide (Ca2[Fe(CN)6])
CAS: 13821-08-4
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 Ferrocyanide?
Calcium ferrocyanide is used as an anti-caking agent in salt and a processing aid in wine production. Like other ferrocyanides (E535, E536), the iron-cyanide complex is extremely stable and does not release free cyanide at normal food conditions. JECFA set an ADI of 0.025 mg/kg body weight (ferrocyanide group). EFSA reviewed it in 2018. Approved in the EU for use in salt (anti-caking) at maximum 20 mg/kg (as ferrocyanide ion). All three ferrocyanide salts are evaluated together as a group with the same ADI.
? Did You Know?
Beyond food, Calcium Ferrocyanide 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.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Restricted to use in salt and salt substitutes only. Same maximum levels as other ferrocyanides.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Limited to 13 ppm in table salt.
Japan (MHLW)
Restricted use with maximum limits.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Produced by reacting sodium or potassium ferrocyanide with calcium chloride. Like other ferrocyanides, the hexacyanoferrate complex is extremely stable with cyanide groups tightly bound to iron.
Applications Beyond Food
Not used.
Not used.
Limited industrial use compared to sodium and potassium ferrocyanides.
Present in table salt.