Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium oxide is a mineral compound made from magnesium and oxygen. It is a white, odorless powder that occurs naturally and can also be produced synthetically.

In food, magnesium oxide is primarily used as a dietary supplement to provide magnesium, an essential mineral. It can also act as an anti-caking agent or pH regulator in products like powdered drinks, cereals, and supplements.

Magnesium oxide is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food, often as a nutrient. Magnesium is vital for many body functions, and at typical intake levels from fortified foods, it is considered safe. High doses, particularly from supplements, can sometimes cause digestive upset. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated magnesium compounds and did not set a numeric limit, considering them to be of low toxicity. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated magnesium and established tolerable upper intake levels for supplemental magnesium.