Aluminium Stearate
Also known as: E573, Aluminum stearate
Aluminium stearate (E573) contributes to total dietary aluminium exposure. EFSA established a tolerable weekly intake of 1 mg Al/kg bw, and exposure in some populations exceeds it.
What it is
Aluminium salt of stearic acid; white insoluble powder.
Anticaking agent, water repellent, gelling/stabilizer in some powdered products.
Why it's flagged
- contributes to dietary aluminium exposure
- TWI exceedance possible in high consumers
- neurotoxicity concerns at chronic high exposure
What regulators actually say
"The Panel established a tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 1 mg aluminium/kg body weight."
"Commission Regulation (EU) No 380/2012 amends conditions of use and use levels for aluminium-containing food additives."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Aluminium stearate listed as GRAS for specific uses in 21 CFR (e.g., 184.1929 for aluminum-containing additives, used as defoamer/anticaking).
European Union — EFSA
EFSA established TWI of 1 mg aluminium/kg bw/week (2008). EU Reg 380/2012 restricts aluminium additives in food.
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