Ingredient · E509

Added To Maintain Firmness

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add calcium chloride to foods to help them maintain their firmness, especially in …

What it is

Calcium chloride is a salt made from chlorine and calcium. It is often produced industrially by reacting calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. It appears as white crystals or granules and dissolves easily in water.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add calcium chloride to foods to help them maintain their firmness, especially in canned fruits and vegetables. It can also be used to enhance flavor, as a preservative, or to help with brewing beer. It is commonly found in canned vegetables, canned fruits, and some dairy products.

Health notes

Calcium chloride is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of calcium, an essential nutrient. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated it. At typical food levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects.

Allergen info

Calcium chloride is not a major allergen. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Added To Maintain Firmness

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.