Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
The additive E553a(ii) (magnesium trisilicate), according to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008 and Regulation (EC) No. 231/2012, is a subclass of the additive E553a (magnesium silicates).
In the international standard Codex Alimentarius CXG 36-1989, it corresponds to code INS 553(ii) — magnesium trisilicate.
Related additives within the INS 553 group:
- INS 553(i) — synthetic magnesium silicate (corresponds to E553a(i) under EU regulations)
- INS 553(iii) — talc (corresponds to E553b under EU regulations)
The chemical formula of E553a(ii) is Mg2Si3O8‧nH2O.
Unlike natural talc E553b, E553a(ii) has a higher guaranteed purity level and does not contain asbestos-like fibers or other impurities typical of natural minerals.
The main difference between E553a(ii) and the subtype E553a(i) lies in its chemical composition: the trisilicate contains significantly more silicon dioxide (SiO2) relative to magnesium oxide (MgO) and exists in a hydrated form (contains bound water molecules).
In terms of properties, E553a(ii) has a porous structure but is less hydrophobic compared to E553a(i).
This allows E553a(ii) to be used not only as an anti-caking agent but also as an effective texture stabilizer in thick, moist mixtures and pharmaceutical masses.
In the food industry, E553a(ii) is effectively used as a carrier for liquid flavorings and colorants, converting them into stable powders that retain their properties during storage. In the confectionery and bakery sectors, E553a(ii) prevents caking of complex mixtures subjected to temperature fluctuations.
Additionally, magnesium trisilicate is indispensable in processes such as refining edible oils and clarifying beverages like beer and juices, adsorbing unwanted protein fractions and oxidation products, ensuring clarity and stability of the final product.
For more details on the properties of magnesium silicates, their effects on the human body, and references to scientific studies, see the main article on the food additive E553.