E 553b Talc

What is E 553b?

E 553b is the E number of Talc. Mineral used as an anti-caking and glazing agent, for example for chewing gum and rice.

What is E 553b used for?

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

• Anti-caking agent: Anti-caking agents stop particles of a food from sticking together or forming lumps.
• Glazing agent: Glazing agents give the surface a shiny appearance or a protective coating.

Which foods may contain E 553b?

According to the European Commission's database, E 553b may be used in 22 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
• Cereals and cereal products
• Meat
• Eggs and egg products
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Food supplements

Is E 553b 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 553b 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 553b 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 553b" or "Anti-caking agent: Talc".