Calcium acetate, with the chemical formula Ca(CH₃COO)₂ and CAS number 62-54-4, is a versatile calcium salt widely used across the food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Known by its food additive code E263, this compound serves multiple functions and has become an essential ingredient in various applications.
What is Calcium Acetate?
Calcium acetate is the calcium salt of acetic acid. It typically exists as a monohydrate (Ca(CH₃COO)₂·H₂O), though the anhydrous form is also available. This white, crystalline powder is highly soluble in water and possesses a slight acetic acid odor.
In the food industry, calcium acetate is designated as E263 and is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by regulatory authorities worldwide.
What Are the Benefits of Calcium Acetate?
Calcium acetate offers several notable benefits:
Food Industry Benefits
- Stabilizer: Maintains consistent texture
- Buffer: Regulates pH levels
- Sequestrant: Binds metal ions
- Firming Agent: Provides structure to processed foods
Nutritional Benefits
- Calcium Source: Provides bioavailable calcium
- Phosphate Control: Binds dietary phosphate
What Are the Uses of Calcium Acetate?
Food Applications
Calcium acetate (E263) is used in candy products, processed foods, beverages, and baked goods.
Pharmaceutical Applications
In medicine, calcium acetate treats hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease by binding to dietary phosphate.
Industrial Uses
- Concrete production
- Animal feed supplementation
- Photography chemicals
Safety and Side Effects
Calcium acetate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food use.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Verstopfung
- Loss of appetite
Vorsichtsmaßnahmen
Consult healthcare providers before using as a supplement, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
Chemical Specifications
| CAS-Nummer | 62-54-4 |
| Molekulare Formel | C₄H₆CaO₄ |
| Molekulargewicht | 158.17 g/mol |
| Erscheinungsbild | Weißes kristallines Pulver |
| E Number | E263 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is calcium acetate safe?
Yes, it is approved as food additive E263 and is GRAS.
What foods contain it?
Candy, processed foods, and beverages.
Why Choose Our Calcium Acetate?
- High purity and consistent quality
- Food grade and pharmaceutical grade available
- Competitive pricing
- Technical support and documentation