E551
E551: Silicon dioxide
Low concernFunction: anti-caking agent
What is E551?
E551 (Silicon dioxide) is a anti-caking agent used in processed foods.
What the research says
Anti-caking agent. EFSA (2018) found no safety concern at reported uses but noted data gaps on very small particles.
Regulatory status
| European Union | Approved |
|---|---|
| United States | Approved |
Questions people ask
Is E551 (Silicon dioxide) safe?
Anti-caking agent. EFSA (2018) found no safety concern at reported uses but noted data gaps on very small particles.
Why is E551 added to food?
It is used as a anti-caking agent.
Does E551 make a food ultra-processed?
Not on its own. E551 is not one of the cosmetic additives the NOVA system uses to identify ultra-processed foods.