What is E504?
E504 is Magnesium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
What is E504 (Magnesium Carbonates)?
E504 is the E-number for magnesium carbonates, one of the anti-caking agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group stop powders and granules clumping together. Mineral salts produced industrially. Like every E-number, E504 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 E504 in detail below.
Where is E504 found?
E504 is typically used in table salt, spice mixes, powdered drinks, grated cheese and dry mixes. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E504) or by its full name, magnesium carbonates. Common foods that may contain E504 include:
- Table salt
- Spice mixes
- Powdered drinks
- Grated cheese and dry mixes
Full guide: foods containing E504 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E504 safe?
E504 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 E504.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E504 vegan?
E504 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E504 →Is E504 halal?
E504 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E504 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E504 in food?
E504 is Magnesium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
Is E504 safe to eat?
Yes. E504 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E504 vegan?
E504 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E504 halal?
E504 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).