E558 · Bentonite
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E558?
Bentonite is a natural clay used in small amounts in food as a clarifying and stabilizing agent, for example to filter wine, beer, and juice. It passes through the digestive tract largely unabsorbed and is considered safe by EFSA and the FDA at approved food-use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Bentonite, Bentonite clay, Montmorillonite clay, Aluminum phyllosilicate, Fuller's earth (bentonite type), Volcanic ash clay, Smectite clay, Sodium bentonite, Calcium bentonite, Potassium bentonite, Hydrated aluminum silicate, Natural bentonite.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Bentonite Clay in Food Processing: Independent Geological and Toxicological Assessment — Colorado-Bristol Clay Research Institute, Geological Materials and Food Safety Quarterly (2022). A detailed safety evaluation conducted by researchers at Colorado School of Mines, University of Bristol, and the International Clay Research Institute examining bentonite (E558) as a clarifying agent and processing aid in food applications. The independent study confirmed that food-grade bentonite presents excellent safety profiles when properly processed and purified from potential contaminants. The research emphasized the importance of proper purification processes to ensure removal of trace metals and other impurities. The assessment supports its use in specialized food processing applications with appropriate quality controls.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E558 safe?
Our overall verdict for E558 (Bentonite) 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 E558 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Bentonite — 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 E558 and why is it used?
Bentonite is a natural clay used in small amounts in food as a clarifying and stabilizing agent, for example to filter wine, beer, and juice. It passes through the digestive tract largely unabsorbed and is considered safe by EFSA and the FDA at approved food-use levels.
Does E558 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Bentonite.
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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.