Calcium Sulfate Hydrate
Calcium sulfate is GRAS in the US and authorized in the EU as E516. It is poorly absorbed; dietary calcium contribution is modest.
What it is
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum), the hydrated form of calcium sulfate (CaSO4·2H2O).
Firming agent, dough conditioner, calcium source, coagulant for tofu, anti-caking agent.
Why it's flagged
- Mild laxative effect at very high doses
What regulators actually say
"Calcium sulfate is a calcium salt of sulfuric acid... The ingredient is used as an anticaking agent, drying agent, dough conditioner, firming agent, formulation aid, leavening agent, processing aid, sequestrant, synergist, and texturizer in food, with no limitation other than current good manufacturing practice."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS - 21 CFR 184.1230
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E516 under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008; ADI 'not specified' (JECFA)
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