E526: Calcium Hydroxide
Main role: alkaline treatment and firming
Also listed as: slaked lime, pickling lime of food grade
What is E526 (Calcium Hydroxide)?
Calcium hydroxide provides alkalinity and calcium ions. It is associated with processes such as treating maize and can be used for other specified food-processing functions.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is alkaline treatment and firming. Mineral ingredients can adjust acidity, firm a food, or keep powders flowing. A technical mineral ingredient does not establish a nutritional dose; use the nutrition declaration to assess amounts per serving.
Food and formulation examples
- Nixtamalized maize
- Specified firming treatments
- Ingredient processing
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 E526, E 526, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include slaked lime, pickling lime of food grade. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Food-grade pickling lime needs the correct recipe, rinsing, and handling procedures. It is not a substitute for agricultural or construction lime.
Is E526 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 E526 as Calcium hydroxide. 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.