Comparing E553 - Magnesium silicates vs E553B - Talc
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 173 products
Found in 119 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
What is magnesium aluminum silicate?
A refined clay mineral of magnesium, aluminum and silicate layers used mainly as a thickener/stabilizer and anti‑caking agent, similar in function to the magnesium silicates covered by E553 (e.g., talc/magnesium silicate).
Is magnesium aluminum silicate safe?
Yes—when of food/cosmetic grade and used as authorized, it’s considered safe; it is insoluble, minimally absorbed, and specifications require it to be asbestos‑free and low in heavy metals.
Does magnesium aluminum silicate cause cancer?
There’s no evidence it causes cancer when asbestos‑free and used as intended; cancer concerns mainly involve inhalation of asbestos‑contaminated talc, not food/cosmetic‑grade materials.
Is magnesium aluminum silicate safe for skin?
Yes—cosmetic safety reviews consider it safe as used; it largely sits on the skin with minimal absorption, though avoiding inhalation of powders is advisable.
Is magnesium silicate harmful?
Food‑grade magnesium silicate (E553) is generally considered safe at permitted levels and is poorly absorbed; the main risks relate to inhaling fine talc dust or using non‑food‑grade/asbestos‑contaminated material.
Is talc bad for you?
Food‑grade talc (E553b) that is asbestos‑free is considered safe at permitted levels in foods by major regulators; the main concerns are from inhaling talc dust or contamination with asbestos, not from normal dietary exposure.
What is talcum powder?
Talcum powder is finely ground talc (hydrated magnesium silicate) used as a cosmetic/body powder to absorb moisture and reduce friction; it is distinct from food‑grade talc (E553b) used in foods as an anti‑caking and release agent.
Does talc cause cancer?
Asbestos‑containing talc is carcinogenic, but asbestos‑free talc used in foods has not been shown to cause cancer; perineal use of talc‑based body powders is classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic (Group 2B).
What is talc used for?
In foods, E553b is used mainly as an anti‑caking, release, and glazing agent to keep powders free‑flowing and to coat products like rice, chewing gum, and confectionery.
Is talcum powder safe?
Asbestos‑free talcum powder is generally considered safe for external use, but avoid inhalation and perineal (genital) application due to potential risks; keep powders away from infants’ faces to prevent breathing problems.