E526 · Calcium hydroxide
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E526?
Calcium hydroxide (E526), also known as slaked lime, is used in food processing as a firming agent and pH regulator, notably in the traditional nixtamalization process for corn tortillas and masa, and to clarify sugar and prepare pickles. It is generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2, Slaked lime, Hydrated lime, Food grade calcium hydroxide, Calcium hydroxide powder, Calcium hydroxide solution, Calcium dihydroxide, Calcium oxyhydroxide, E526, E 526, E-526.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels; residual amounts are alkaline but well within safe limits in finished food.
Research behind the verdict
- Calcium Hydroxide in Food Applications: Benefits and Safety Analysis — SarChem Laboratories Food Research Division, Food Chemistry and Applications Journal (2024). A detailed analysis of calcium hydroxide (E526), also known as slaked lime or pickling lime, examining its benefits and applications in food preparation. The study confirmed calcium hydroxide is safe when used according to approved guidelines as a firming agent and pH regulator. The research highlighted its historical use in food processing and confirmed its safety profile for various food applications. The assessment noted its effectiveness in food preservation and texture enhancement with established safety margins.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E526 safe?
Our overall verdict for E526 (Calcium hydroxide) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E526 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Calcium hydroxide — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E526 and why is it used?
Calcium hydroxide (E526), also known as slaked lime, is used in food processing as a firming agent and pH regulator, notably in the traditional nixtamalization process for corn tortillas and masa, and to clarify sugar and prepare pickles. It is generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Does E526 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Calcium hydroxide.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.