Ingredient
Silicon Dioxide
What is Silicon Dioxide?
Silicon Dioxide, commonly known as silica, is a naturally occurring mineral often used in the food industry. It is usually obtained from quartz or synthesized in a lab and appears as a fine white powder.
Silicon Dioxide is mainly used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in powdered products. It is considered safe for consumption, but research on long-term effects is limited. Some studies suggest it passes through the body without being absorbed.
When you see Silicon Dioxide on a label, it's generally used to enhance product texture and ensure consistency. It is widely accepted in small quantities.
Commonly found in: protein powders, spice mixes, electrolyte drinks, table salt
Benefits
- Helps maintain free-flowing texture by preventing clumping.
Silicon Dioxide is recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
Research suggests Silicon Dioxide is not absorbed by the body, but long-term studies are limited.
Silicon Dioxide is not derived from animals and is typically considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: Silicon Dioxide: GRAS Notice
Scout's take
Silicon dioxide is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in powdered supplements. It is a naturally occurring mineral and is generally recognized as safe. This ingredient does not provide nutritional benefits but is important for maintaining product consistency.
The case for
Prevents clumping and maintains product quality.
from the analysis of RAW Nutrition Essential Pre-Workout · echoed in 1 other analysisPrevents clumping and maintains the free-flowing nature of powdered products.
from the analysis of Annie's Shells & Aged Cheddar Mac and CheesePrevents clumping in powdered foods, maintaining product quality.
from the analysis of Banza Gluten Free Chickpea Shells & White CheddarMore from Scout's analyses
Silicon dioxide is an anti-caking agent commonly used in powdered supplements. It is inert and generally recognized as safe for consumption.
from the analysis of RAW Nutrition Essential Pre-WorkoutStandard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of TREVI Sugar Free ElectrolytesPart of Cocoa Flavor. Composite flavor system stacking corn syrup, mono and diglycerides (which can contain trans fats not required to be labeled), industrial phosphate, and unspecified natural flavor — a long ingredient list buried inside the 'flavor' label.
from the analysis of MuscleTech 100% Mass Gainer Vanilla MilkshakeFound in 12 products
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