Talc
Also known as: E553b, talcum, hydrated magnesium silicate
Food-grade talc must be asbestos-free; non-food-grade talc can be contaminated with asbestos, classified Group 1 carcinogen by IARC. JECFA established no specific ADI for talc due to its low oral toxicity, but EFSA noted the need for purity specifications.
What it is
Talc, hydrated magnesium silicate (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2), a mineral used as an anticaking and glazing agent.
Anticaking agent / glazing agent / processing aid.
Why it's flagged
- potential asbestos contamination if non-food-grade
- inhalation hazard during processing
What regulators actually say
"Talc is GRAS as a substance migrating to food from cotton and cotton fabrics used in dry food packaging."
"Talc is a naturally occurring mineral... talc deposits may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as anticaking/glazing in chewing gum and other foods under 21 CFR 182.70 (GRAS)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food additive E553b with purity specifications
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app