What is E559?
E559 is Kaolin (Aluminium Silicate) — a natural clay, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
What is E559 (Kaolin)?
E559 is the E-number for kaolin, one of the anti-caking agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group stop powders and granules clumping together. A natural clay. Like every E-number, E559 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 E559 in detail below.
Where is E559 found?
E559 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 (E559) or by its full name, kaolin. Common foods that may contain E559 include:
- Table salt
- Spice mixes
- Powdered drinks
- Grated cheese and dry mixes
Full guide: foods containing E559 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E559 safe?
E559 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 E559.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E559 vegan?
E559 is vegan. A natural clay, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E559 →Is E559 halal?
E559 is halal. A natural clay, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E559 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E559 in food?
E559 is Kaolin (Aluminium Silicate) — a natural clay, used as a anti-caking agent to help stop powders and granules clumping together.
Is E559 safe to eat?
Yes. E559 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E559 vegan?
E559 is vegan. A natural clay, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E559 halal?
E559 is halal. A natural clay, 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).