Ingredient · E509

Firming Agent Calcium Chloride

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use calcium chloride as a firming agent to make foods like canned vegetables, …

What it is

Calcium chloride is a salt made from calcium and chlorine. It is found naturally in seawater and can also be produced industrially from limestone or as a byproduct of the Solvay process for making soda ash.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use calcium chloride as a firming agent to make foods like canned vegetables, pickles, and cheeses more solid and less mushy. It helps maintain texture and can also be used to enhance flavor in some 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 and EFSA have evaluated calcium chloride and established acceptable daily intake levels, though specific numeric values are not provided here. It is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in food.

Allergen info

Calcium chloride is not derived from any of the 9 major food allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing Firming Agent Calcium Chloride

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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.