E578: Calcium Gluconate
Main role: firming and formulation support
Also listed as: calcium D-gluconate
What is E578 (Calcium Gluconate)?
Calcium gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid used in specified food preparations. Its calcium and gluconate components distinguish it from calcium carbonate and calcium chloride, which can perform different formulation roles.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is firming and formulation support. 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
- Specified firming applications
- Food ingredient preparations
- Selected nutrient 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 E578, E 578, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include calcium D-gluconate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Calcium gluconate used in food does not have the same quantity or purpose as an injectable medicine. Nutrition comparisons require the declared calcium amount in the finished product.
Is E578 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 E578 as Calcium gluconate. 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.