E238 – Calcium Formate

Danger Level: 4 (Avoid)

E238, known as Calcium Formate, is a calcium salt of formic acid with the chemical formula Ca(HCO₂)₂. It functions as a preservative and acidity regulator, inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms and regulating pH levels in certain products, thereby extending shelf life. However, its use in food intended for human consumption is limited due to safety concerns. 

Purpose in Products

Calcium Formate is primarily utilized in:

  • Animal Feed: Commonly added to animal feed to inhibit microbial growth and improve feed stability. 
  • Industrial Applications: Used in non-food applications, such as concrete additives and de-icing agents. 

Its application in food products for human consumption is rare and subject to strict regulations due to potential health risks.

Health Considerations

The use of Calcium Formate in food products is limited due to safety concerns:

  • Toxicity Concerns: Calcium Formate can be toxic if consumed in large amounts, leading to potential health risks. 
  • Irritation: May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation if handled improperly. 

Due to these risks, its use in food products is generally avoided.

Impact on Children

Given the potential toxicity and irritation risks, exposure to Calcium Formate should be strictly avoided in children’s diets.

Impact on Taste

Calcium Formate is not commonly used in food products for human consumption; therefore, its impact on taste is not well-documented.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Due to safety concerns, Calcium Formate is not typically combined with other food additives in products intended for human consumption.

Natural Occurrence

Calcium Formate does not occur naturally in foods and is synthetically produced for industrial and animal feed applications.

Alternatives and Substitutes

Safer alternatives are preferred for food preservation and acidity regulation in human food products:

  • Sorbic Acid (E200): A commonly used preservative effective against molds and yeasts.
  • Potassium Sorbate (E202): Widely used to inhibit mold and yeast growth in various food products.
  • Calcium Propionate (E282): Used as a preservative in baked goods to prevent mold growth.

Regulation

The use of Calcium Formate as a food additive is banned or restricted in many regions due to safety concerns:

  • European Union: Not approved for use in food products intended for human consumption. 
  • United States: Not recognized as safe for use in human food products.

Its use is primarily limited to industrial applications and animal feed, with strict regulations to ensure consumer safety.

Conclusion

E238 (Calcium Formate) is primarily used in industrial applications and animal feed as a preservative and acidity regulator. Due to potential toxicity and safety concerns, its use in food products intended for human consumption is generally avoided and subject to strict regulatory restrictions. Consumers should be aware of its presence in non-food products and handle it with caution to avoid irritation or adverse health effects.