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E504Anti-caking agentLow concern
Magnesium Carbonate
In plain words
The short version
A light mineral powder used to keep salt and powders free-flowing, regulate acidity, and 'Dutch' cocoa.
Why it's green
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Safety profile
No ADI specified. Poorly absorbed; larger amounts act as an antacid and mild laxative.
The detail
The mineral magnesite, or precipitated from magnesium salts. Chemically MgCO3.
Anti-caking and free-flow agent (table salt, spices, powdered foods), acidity regulator, and a source of magnesium. Alkalizes cocoa in the 'Dutch process'. It is also the 'chalk' used by climbers and gymnasts.
Light, bulky white powder, practically insoluble in water, reacting with acids to release CO2.
Permitted in the EU, the US (GRAS), and globally.
Sources
- WHO JECFA database — Magnesium carbonate (INS 504i) — World Health Organization / JECFA, 1965. No numerical ADI; anticaking agent
- 21 CFR 184.1425 — Magnesium carbonate (GRAS affirmation) — U.S. eCFR / FDA, 1985. US GRAS status; anticaking, pH control, nutrient uses
- Commission Regulation (EU) No 1129/2011 — Union list of food additives (Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008) — EUR-Lex / European Union, 2011. EU authorisation (Group I, quantum satis)
Checked against these sources on .
Educational information only. Not medical, dietary or veterinary advice. Spotted an error? Tell us.