What is E538?
E538 is Calcium Ferrocyanide — a synthetic anti-caking salt, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
What is E538 (Calcium Ferrocyanide)?
E538 is the E-number for calcium ferrocyanide, one of the anti-caking agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group stop powders and granules clumping together. A synthetic anti-caking salt. Like every E-number, E538 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 E538 in detail below.
Where is E538 found?
E538 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 (E538) or by its full name, calcium ferrocyanide. Common foods that may contain E538 include:
- Table salt
- Spice mixes
- Powdered drinks
- Grated cheese and dry mixes
Full guide: foods containing E538 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E538 safe?
E538 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 E538.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E538 vegan?
E538 is vegan. A synthetic anti-caking salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E538 →Is E538 halal?
E538 is halal. A synthetic anti-caking salt, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E538 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E538 in food?
E538 is Calcium Ferrocyanide — a synthetic anti-caking salt, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
Is E538 safe to eat?
Yes. E538 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E538 vegan?
E538 is vegan. A synthetic anti-caking salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E538 halal?
E538 is halal. A synthetic anti-caking salt, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).