What is E511?
E511 is Magnesium Chloride — a mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.
What is E511 (Magnesium Chloride)?
E511 is the E-number for magnesium chloride, one of the acidity regulators group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group control the acidity or alkalinity of food. A mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater. Like every E-number, E511 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 E511 in detail below.
Where is E511 found?
E511 is typically used in baked goods, soft drinks, sweets, dairy products and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E511) or by its full name, magnesium chloride. Common foods that may contain E511 include:
- Baked goods
- Soft drinks
- Sweets
- Dairy products and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E511 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E511 safe?
E511 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 E511.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E511 vegan?
E511 is vegan. A mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E511 →Is E511 halal?
E511 is halal. A mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E511 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E511 in food?
E511 is Magnesium Chloride — a mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.
Is E511 safe to eat?
Yes. E511 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E511 vegan?
E511 is vegan. A mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E511 halal?
E511 is halal. A mineral salt extracted from brine or seawater, 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).