Tetrasodium Edta
EDTA salts (calcium disodium and disodium EDTA) are FDA-approved at specific use levels. Tetrasodium EDTA is more common in cosmetic/cleaning applications; calcium and disodium forms predominate in food.
What it is
Tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, a chelating agent that binds metal ions.
Sequestrant; prevents discoloration, oxidation, and metal-catalyzed off-flavors.
Why it's flagged
- may interfere with mineral absorption at very high intakes
What regulators actually say
"Disodium EDTA may be safely used as a sequestrant in food in accordance with the following conditions..."
"An acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 2.5 mg/kg bw per day for calcium disodium EDTA is established."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Calcium disodium EDTA (21 CFR 172.120) and disodium EDTA (21 CFR 172.135) approved with use limits
European Union — EFSA
E385 calcium disodium EDTA approved with ADI 2.5 mg/kg bw/day
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