Is Silicon Dioxide Safe?
Silicon Dioxide is the additive E551 — a mineral produced synthetically for food use, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
Is Silicon Dioxide safe to eat?
E551 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E551.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Silicon Dioxide?
E551 is the E-number for silicon dioxide, one of the anti-caking agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group stop powders and granules clumping together. A mineral produced synthetically for food use. Like every E-number, E551 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E551 in detail below.
What foods contain Silicon Dioxide?
E551 (Silicon Dioxide) is typically found in:
- Table salt
- Spice mixes
- Powdered drinks
- Grated cheese and dry mixes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silicon Dioxide bad for you?
Yes. E551 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Silicon Dioxide vegan?
E551 is vegan. A mineral produced synthetically for food use, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Silicon Dioxide halal?
E551 is halal. A mineral produced synthetically for food use, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E551 (Silicon Dioxide) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).