Sodium Aluminate
Aluminum-containing food additives have been progressively restricted because of cumulative aluminum exposure risk. EFSA (2008) set a tolerable weekly intake of 1 mg/kg bw/week for aluminum from all sources, and JECFA established 2 mg/kg bw/week.
What it is
Inorganic compound NaAlO2; an alkaline aluminum salt used in water treatment, paper sizing, and as a leavening/strengthening agent in some baked goods.
Stabilizer / pH regulator / firming agent (rare in modern foods).
Why it's flagged
- aluminum cumulative neurotoxicity concern
- associated bone effects
- not authorised as direct food additive in EU
What regulators actually say
"EFSA established a tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 1 mg aluminium/kg body weight per week."
"Maximum levels of certain aluminium-containing food additives are reduced or their use restricted to limit consumer exposure."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not listed as a direct food additive; permitted in some indirect applications (water treatment chemicals 21 CFR 173.310).
European Union — EFSA
Not on Annex II Union list of food additives; aluminum compounds restricted under Regulation 380/2012.
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