Comparing E553 - Magnesium silicates vs E559 - Aluminium silicate
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 173 products
Found in 25 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 3 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.
What is kaolin clay?
Kaolin clay is a naturally occurring hydrated aluminium silicate mineral (mainly kaolinite), used as the food additive E559 (aluminium silicate). It’s a fine, white, inert powder formed by the weathering of feldspar-rich rocks.
What is kaolin used for?
In foods (as E559), it’s used mainly as an anti‑caking and release agent in powdered products and as a processing aid; outside foods, it’s widely used in ceramics, paper, rubber, and cosmetics.
Where is kaolin clay found?
It occurs worldwide in deposits formed by weathering of granite/feldspar; major sources include China (Gaoling), the southeastern United States (Georgia), the UK (Cornwall), and Brazil.
How much kaolin clay per pound of soap?
A common usage rate is about 0.5–1 teaspoon per pound of oils (roughly 1–3 g per 454 g), pre-dispersed in a little water or oil; higher amounts can make soap feel draggy or more drying.
Is kaolin clay good for skin?
Cosmetic‑grade kaolin is a mild, fine clay that can absorb excess oil and add slip, so it’s commonly used in masks and powders; it’s generally well tolerated, but overuse may be drying—patch test if you have very dry or sensitive skin.