Silicon Dioxide As Anticaking Agent

Silicon dioxide is a naturally occurring compound made of silicon and oxygen. It is found in sand and quartz. It is manufactured by reacting sodium silicate with a mineral acid, then drying and milling the resulting precipitate.

Manufacturers add silicon dioxide to powdered and granulated foods to prevent clumping and ensure free flow. It acts as an anticaking agent, absorbing moisture and keeping particles separated. It is commonly found in seasoning mixes, salt, powdered drink mixes, and some baked goods.

Silicon dioxide is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as an anticaking agent. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated it. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.