An Anticaking Agent

Anticaking agents are substances added to powdered or granulated foods to prevent clumping. They work by absorbing moisture or coating particles to keep them from sticking together. Many are naturally occurring minerals or salts.

Manufacturers add anticaking agents to keep powdered and granulated foods free-flowing. They are commonly found in salt, sugar, spices, baking mixes, and powdered drink mixes. This helps ensure consistent texture and easy measuring.

In the US, many anticaking agents are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or approved food additives. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many of these substances. At typical consumption levels, they are not associated with adverse health effects. Research has not identified significant health concerns for most anticaking agents.