Comparing E285 - Sodium tetraborate (borax) vs E509 - Calcium chloride
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 13 products
Found in 104 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 6 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
How to make slime without borax?
Mix 2 parts cornstarch with 1 part water (add a drop of food coloring) to make a simple borax-free “oobleck”; adjust ratios to change firmness. Other borate-free options include gelatin- or psyllium-fiber-based slimes.
Is borax toxic?
Yes—borax (sodium tetraborate) can irritate skin/eyes and is harmful if swallowed; chronic high exposure to boron compounds is linked to reproductive toxicity. It’s not permitted as a food additive in the EU or US, so keep it away from food and children.
What is borax used for?
It’s used in detergents/cleaners, laboratory buffers, flame retardants, metal fluxes, and as an insecticide; in food it was historically used as a preservative/firming agent but this use is largely banned.
Does borax kill ants?
Yes—when mixed into a sugar or protein bait, small amounts of borax are carried back to the colony and kill ants over time; place baits carefully and keep them away from children and pets.
How to make slime with borax?
Dissolve 1 teaspoon borax in 1 cup warm water; in another bowl mix 4 oz white glue with 1/2 cup water and coloring, then slowly add the borax solution while stirring until it gels and knead. Do not ingest, avoid contact with eyes, and wash hands after use (gloves if sensitive).
Is calcium chloride safe?
Yes—calcium chloride (E509) is approved for use in foods and is generally recognized as safe at typical levels; concentrated solutions can irritate the mouth or stomach, so it’s used in small, regulated amounts.
Is calcium chloride bad for you?
Not at normal food-use levels; it supplies calcium and chloride and is not considered harmful when used as intended. Large amounts or non–food-grade products (like de-icers) can cause irritation or electrolyte disturbances.
Is calcium chloride safe for pets?
In small, food-grade amounts used in pet foods it’s generally safe. Exposure to de-icing products containing calcium chloride can irritate paws and the GI tract—rinse paws and contact a vet if a pet ingests a significant amount.
What is calcium chloride used for?
In foods it’s used as a firming agent and stabilizer (e.g., in canned vegetables and pickles), a coagulant in tofu/cheese making, and to adjust mineral content in brewing and beverages. Beyond food, it’s used for de-icing and as a desiccant.
What is calcium chloride in food?
It’s a mineral salt additive (E509) used as a firming agent, stabiliser, and coagulant to help maintain texture in products like canned tomatoes, pickles, tofu, and cheese, and it can also provide electrolytes in some drinks.