Ingredient · Updated
Calcium Disodium EDTA
Found in 11 productsSee all
What is Calcium Disodium EDTA?
Calcium disodium EDTA is a synthetic compound used as a chelating agent to bind metal ions. It is made by combining ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) with calcium and sodium ions, resulting in a compound that can stabilize foods and prevent spoilage by binding to trace metals.
In the food industry, it's commonly added to products to improve color retention, texture, and nutritional quality by preventing metal-catalyzed oxidation. While generally recognized as safe, some concerns exist regarding its potential to cause digestive irritation when consumed in large amounts.
When you see Calcium disodium EDTA on a label, it's primarily used to preserve freshness and maintain product quality, especially in canned foods, dressings, and beverages.
Commonly found in: canned foods, soft drinks, salad dressings, mayonnaise, processed seafood
What to watch
- High intake may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
- Some animal studies suggest potential impacts on metal absorption, though relevance to humans at typical exposure levels is unclear.
Benefits
- Enhances stability and shelf life of food products by preventing discoloration and spoilage.
Calcium disodium EDTA is approved by the FDA as a food additive and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in specified amounts.
Research shows Calcium disodium EDTA is effective at extending shelf life; still, some studies raise questions about mineral depletion effects with excessive intake.
Calcium disodium EDTA is synthetic and not derived from animal sources, making it suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and safety evaluation · Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 - Food Additives Permitted for Direct Addition to Food for Human Consumption
Scout's take
Calcium disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to preserve color and flavor. It is synthetically produced and can bind to metals, potentially affecting mineral absorption. Long-term consumption may lead to nutrient imbalances.
The case against
May cause digestive issues and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Ken's Steak House Creamy Caesar · echoed in 1 other analysisMay cause gastrointestinal discomfort and has potential toxicity concerns with excessive intake.
from the analysis of Splash Blast SPLASH WATER BEVERAGEMay cause gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of HELLMANN'S, REAL MAYONNAISEMay affect mineral absorption and lead to nutrient imbalances.
from the analysis of Propel Kiwi Strawberry Water Beverage BottleMay cause nutrient depletion and mineral imbalances.
from the analysis of Propel Berry Water Beverage 20 Fluid Ounce Plastic BottleThe case for
Helps maintain product stability by preventing metal-catalyzed oxidation.
from the analysis of Splash Blast SPLASH WATER BEVERAGEMaintains color and flavor stability in the product.
from the analysis of Propel Berry Water Beverage 20 Fluid Ounce Plastic BottleHelps preserve color and flavor stability.
from the analysis of Propel Kiwi Strawberry Water Beverage BottleMore from Scout's analyses
Calcium disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to preserve color and flavor. It is a synthetic additive with potential health concerns related to mineral depletion and allergic reactions. Its use is controversial due to its processing and potential health impacts.
from the analysis of Brisk Iced TeaCalcium disodium EDTA is a synthetic preservative used to maintain color and flavor. It is considered safe in small amounts but is a marker of processed foods. Its use is unnecessary in whole food products and may indicate lower quality.
from the analysis of Sun Vista Pinto BeansCalcium disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to preserve color and flavor in foods. It is a synthetic additive that can bind to metals and remove them from the body. However, its use is controversial due to potential health concerns.
from the analysis of Splash Blast SPLASH WATER BEVERAGEAll 11 products with Calcium Disodium EDTA
Where Calcium Disodium EDTA shows up
- Hydration 4 products
- Condiments 3 products
- Beans 1 product
- Energy Drinks 1 product
- Tea 1 product
- Butter 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Calcium Disodium EDTA
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Calcium Disodium EDTA, scoring 80 or above.
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