E 553a Magnesium silicate

What is E 553a?

E 553a is the E number of Magnesium silicate. Mineral anti-caking agent, for example for salt and powders.

What is E 553a used for?

E 553a belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as anti-caking agent.

• Anti-caking agent: Anti-caking agents stop particles of a food from sticking together or forming lumps.

Which foods may contain E 553a?

According to the European Commission's database, E 553a may be used in 17 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
• Confectionery
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Food supplements

Is E 553a vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 553a linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 553a appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Anti-caking agent: E 553a" or "Anti-caking agent: Magnesium silicate".