Comparing E553A - synthetic magnesium silicates vs E553B - Talc

Overview

E553A - synthetic magnesium silicates

Synthetic magnesium silicates (E553a) are mineral-based powders used mainly to keep foods free-flowing and to stop sticky products from clumping. They are made by reacting magnesium salts with soluble silicates to produce a porous, water‑insoluble material that behaves like a tiny sponge. Regulators in the EU set detailed purity criteria for food‑grade E553a and list where it can be used in foods.

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E553B - Talc

Talc (E553b) is a naturally occurring mineral used in foods as an anti-caking, anti-sticking, and glazing agent. It helps powders flow, keeps surfaces from sticking, and protects delicate coatings in products like confectionery and chewing gum. It is very insoluble and, when eaten, passes through the body largely unchanged.

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Synonyms
E553a
synthetic magnesium silicates
E553b
Talc
talcum
hydrated magnesium silicate
Functions
anticaking agent
anticaking agentglazing agent
Origins
Synthetic
Mineral
Products

Found in 0 products

Found in 119 products

Search rank & volume
🇺🇸U.S.
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Awareness score

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Search volume over time

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Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

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Popular questions

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  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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).

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

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