E263: Calcium Acetate
Main role: acidity control and stabilization
Also listed as: calcium ethanoate
What is E263 (Calcium Acetate)?
Calcium acetate E263 is the calcium salt of acetic acid. It can be used in acidity and stabilization systems for particular foods. Its salt identity distinguishes it from calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, and other calcium ingredients.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity control and stabilization. Acidity regulators adjust or buffer pH. The resulting acidity depends on the whole recipe, not just the presence of one acid or salt. Acidity control may also affect texture and the performance of other ingredients.
Food and formulation examples
- Acidity-control preparations
- Specified bakery applications
- Ingredient stabilization blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E263, E 263, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include calcium ethanoate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The presence of calcium in the name does not prove a useful calcium intake. Check declared nutrients if fortification is relevant, and avoid applying medicinal-dose information to a food recipe.
Is E263 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E263 as Calcium acetate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.