Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Magnesium silicates are a group of mineral-based food additives, primarily used as anti-caking agents and technological carriers, and according to the “International Numbering System for Food Additives Codex Alimentarius CXG 36-1989” are labeled with the code INS 553 or E553.
There is a certain difference between the classification of additives in this group under EU legislation and in the Codex Alimentarius. While the European system under EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 classifies synthetic magnesium silicates as E553a and natural talc as E553b, the international Codex Alimentarius system groups them under the general INS 553 code with digital indexes:
- E553(i) — Synthetic magnesium silicate (E553a(i) - in the EU);
- E553(ii) — Magnesium trisilicate (E553a(ii) - in the EU);
- E553(iii) — Talc (E553b - in the EU).
The primary function of additive E553 is to prevent caking of powdered products, maintain free-flowing properties, and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Magnesium silicates are naturally occurring. They are components of rocks and minerals formed over millions of years in the Earth’s crust. The most well-known natural member of this group is talc, which forms through metamorphic transformations of magnesium-containing rocks.
Food additive E553 comprises a group of inorganic compounds mainly consisting of magnesium oxide (MgO) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) in varying ratios. The simplest formula for magnesium silicate is MgSiO3. The general chemical formula may vary depending on the specific type.
E553 appears as a white or grayish powder with no taste or odor, insoluble in water, heat-resistant, and chemically inert.
For food use, E553 is obtained in two main ways: natural talc (E553b) is mined and then undergoes multi-step purification and micronization (fine grinding), whereas magnesium silicates (E553a) are synthesized via a chemical precipitation reaction between soluble magnesium salts (MgSO4, MgCl2) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3).
Effects on the Body
Benefit of Additive E553
Magnesium silicates are not nutrients and have no biological value for the body. They do not participate in metabolism and are virtually unabsorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
According to the 2018 re-evaluation, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirmed that magnesium silicates do not raise concerns regarding genotoxicity or carcinogenicity when used as food additives. Since these compounds are not absorbed into the systemic bloodstream and are excreted unchanged, no specific Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) value was established, leaving the status “not specified.”
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) recognized that magnesium silicates are biologically inert and have low systemic absorption after oral intake, and did not establish an ADI for this group.
Risks of Additive E553
Once ingested, magnesium silicates are practically insoluble and are excreted naturally through the intestines.
According to EFSA assessments, absorption of silicates and talc from the digestive tract is very low, but data on long-term toxicity, carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity are insufficient, and experimental models show possible accumulation of silicon in kidneys and liver.
Major scientific discussions about potential risks of E553 focus on the purity of mineral raw materials (absence of asbestos and heavy metals) and occupational hazards — inhalation of fine dust, which may lead to respiratory diseases.
In one study of 75 patients with mesothelioma (pleural cancer), the only known source of asbestos exposure was long-term use of cosmetic talc (additive E553b). Asbestos fibers (tremolite, anthophyllite) were found in patient tissues, indicating contamination of the talc.
In a series of clinical cases, researchers found asbestos fibers in ovarian tumor tissues and in talc samples used by patients, indicating that asbestos in cosmetic talc may cause ovarian cancer.
The hazard of talc in the E553 group is mainly due to natural talc deposits potentially containing asbestos, a known carcinogen. Talc itself, without asbestos, is considered significantly less hazardous, but its safety continues to be actively studied.
Synthetic magnesium silicates have similar toxicological properties to talc, but the risk of impurities in synthetic materials is significantly lower. They are generally considered safer due to the absence of natural asbestos contamination risk, which is the main concern for natural talc.
Uses
Food additive E553 is used as a highly effective anti-caking and separating agent.
E553 is added to powdered and granular products such as salt, powdered sugar, dry cream, spices, and soup concentrates to prevent particle clumping and ensure free-flowing mixtures even in high humidity conditions.
Additionally, magnesium silicates are used in confectionery to glaze the surfaces of dragees and candies, in cheesemaking to sprinkle grated cheeses (preventing clumping), and as carriers for flavorings and colorants.
Another important use is in refining vegetable oils and wine clarification, where E553 acts as an adsorbent, binding and removing unwanted impurities.
Beyond the food industry, magnesium silicates are widely used in cosmetics as an absorbent and filler in powders, eyeshadows, blushes, and other products, improving texture and helping absorb moisture and skin oils.
Legal Status
Additives in the E553 group are permitted in most countries worldwide.
In the European Union, E553 is authorized under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives.
In Ukraine, use of this additive is permitted under EU-harmonized standards.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies magnesium silicates as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for use in food and packaging materials.
In Canada and Japan, the additive is also permitted within established product categories. Key requirements remain quality control and compliance with international safety specifications.