What is E516?
E516 is Calcium Sulphate — a mineral salt (gypsum), used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.
What is E516 (Calcium Sulphate)?
E516 is the E-number for calcium sulphate, 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 (gypsum). Like every E-number, E516 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 E516 in detail below.
Where is E516 found?
E516 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 (E516) or by its full name, calcium sulphate. Common foods that may contain E516 include:
- Baked goods
- Soft drinks
- Sweets
- Dairy products and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E516 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E516 safe?
E516 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 E516.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E516 vegan?
E516 is vegan. A mineral salt (gypsum), with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E516 →Is E516 halal?
E516 is halal. A mineral salt (gypsum), with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E516 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E516 in food?
E516 is Calcium Sulphate — a mineral salt (gypsum), used as a acidity regulator to help control the acidity or alkalinity of food.
Is E516 safe to eat?
Yes. E516 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E516 vegan?
E516 is vegan. A mineral salt (gypsum), with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E516 halal?
E516 is halal. A mineral salt (gypsum), 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).