E553a: Magnesium Silicates
Main role: preventing clumping
Also listed as: magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate
What is E553a (Magnesium Silicates)?
E553a includes specified magnesium silicate forms used for technical food functions. These mineral ingredients help manage powder behavior in the applications covered by their authorization.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is preventing clumping. 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
- Powdered ingredient preparations
- Seasonings where permitted
- Food supplement mixtures
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 E553a, E 553a, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The family code can cover more than one magnesium silicate form. Check the exact specification when comparing an ingredient with a source about another member of the group.
Is E553a 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 E553a as Magnesium silicate. 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.