Strengthener

Strengtheners are substances added to food to improve or maintain its firmness and texture. They are often mineral salts, such as calcium chloride or calcium sulfate, which can be naturally occurring or produced industrially. These compounds interact with other food components, like proteins and pectin, to create a more stable and desirable structure.

Manufacturers add strengtheners to help foods retain their shape and prevent them from becoming soft or mushy during processing and storage. They are commonly found in canned fruits and vegetables, jams, jellies, and baked goods like bread and tortillas. Strengtheners help maintain the firmness and bite of these products.

Calcium chloride and calcium sulfate are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. These minerals are also naturally present in the body and in many foods. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated these substances. At typical levels used in food, they are not associated with adverse health effects.