Calcium Disodium EDTA Added To Help Promote Color Retention

Calcium disodium EDTA is a synthetic compound that acts as a chelating agent. It is made by reacting ethylenediamine with sodium chloroacetate, and then neutralizing the resulting acid with calcium hydroxide. It is often used to bind with metal ions, preventing them from causing unwanted changes in food.

Manufacturers add calcium disodium EDTA to help preserve color and prevent spoilage in various foods. It works by binding to metal ions that can catalyze oxidation reactions. It is commonly found in canned vegetables, beans, and dressings.

Calcium disodium EDTA is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is poorly absorbed by the body and is primarily excreted unchanged. JECFA has evaluated it and established an acceptable daily intake. Some studies have explored its potential health effects, but at typical dietary levels, it is not associated with adverse health outcomes.