E578 - Calciumgluconat

Origin

Calcium gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid, produced by the oxidation of glucose. It can be manufactured through the fermentation of glucose, followed by neutralization with a calcium source. It is a white, odorless, crystalline powder.

Usage

In the food industry, calcium gluconate is used as a firming agent, stabilizer, and sequestrant. It is often added to processed fruits and vegetables to maintain their texture and prevent discoloration. It can also be used as a calcium supplement in food products. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as an injectable calcium supplement to treat hypocalcemia (calcium deficiency). It is also used in some medical applications as a treatment for hydrofluoric acid burns.

Side Effects

Calcium gluconate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. High doses of calcium supplements can lead to hypercalcemia, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, hypercalcemia can lead to more serious complications such as kidney stones and cardiac arrhythmias. However, these effects are more commonly associated with high doses of calcium supplements taken orally or intravenously, rather than with the levels typically found in food products. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has not established a numerical Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for calcium gluconate, indicating its low toxicity.

Regulatory Status

Calcium gluconate is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including the United States and the European Union. In the EU, it is designated as E578. It is also approved for use in pharmaceutical applications. Regulations regarding its use in food vary by country, but generally, it is permitted within certain limits based on good manufacturing practice.