E385: Calcium Disodium EDTA
Main role: metal-ion binding
Also listed as: calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, calcium disodium edetate
What is E385 (Calcium Disodium EDTA)?
Calcium disodium EDTA binds certain metal ions that could otherwise promote oxidation or discoloration. This sequestrant function can help stabilize specified food preparations. It is not the same as disodium EDTA used in some other product contexts.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is metal-ion binding. A sequestrant binds certain metal ions in a formulation. This can help manage reactions that affect appearance or flavor. The technical role is different from a claim that the finished food removes metals from the body.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified emulsified sauces
- Selected canned-food preparations
- Oxidation-control systems
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 E385, E 385, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, calcium disodium edetate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
EDTA is a family of related names, not one interchangeable ingredient. Food additive use should not be equated with medical chelation therapy or extrapolated from a cosmetics formulation.
Is E385 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 E385 as Calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetra-acetate (Calcium disodium EDTA). 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.