Calcium acetate

E number E263INS 263CAS 62-54-4

Listed as an acidity regulator by Canada, Codex and the US.

Listed as acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · stabilisers (US, Codex) · colours (US) · preservatives (Codex) · thickeners (US) · firming agents (US) · sequestrants (US) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · texturisers (US) · processing aids (US)
Chemical structure of Calcium acetate, from PubChem compound 6116
Structure from PubChem CID 6116 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Calcium acetate is an acidity regulator, firming agent and mould inhibitor, used in bread and in some canned vegetables.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Calcium acetate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

55 food categories

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMP
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPOnly UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMP
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMP
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMP
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPOnly UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMP
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMP
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMP
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMP
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMP
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMP
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMP
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMP
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMP
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMP
  • 13.2 Foods for infants — 5,000 mg/kg
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMP
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMP
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMP
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMP
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPFor juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMP
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMP
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMP
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMP
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMP
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMP
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMP
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMP
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMP
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMP
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMP
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMP
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMP
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMP
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMP
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMP
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMP
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMP
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMP
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMP
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMP
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMP
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMP
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMP
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMP
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMP
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMP
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMP
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 54 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

2 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Beer. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item C.1(a)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item C.1(b)
Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10)and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

73 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — quantum satisquantum satis. only processed cereal based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made winePermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisquantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisquantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsPermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roePermitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 72 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

71 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children as defined by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC — quantum satisquantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisquantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisquantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisPermitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 155, 酢酸カルシウム (“Calcium Acetate” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 155, 酢酸カルシウム (“Calcium Acetate” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 초산칼슘 (“Calcium Acetate”, the English the Code prints beside it). Main use (주용도) of 초산칼슘: 산도조절제, 보존료, 안정제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 초산칼슘: (1) [to be used under the general standard for use in II. 2. 1), the minimum amount that achieves the technical effect, with no limit set for this additive in particular] “II. 2. 1)의 규정에 따라 사용하여야 한다.” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted21 CFR 182.6197and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

3 food categories

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.2.1.2 Fermented milks (plain), heat-treated after fermentation — GMP
    • Note 630 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) only, as an acidity regulator in flavoured fermented milks and flavoured drinks based on fermented milks that are not heat treated after fermentation, and in plain and flavoured milks and drinks based on fermented milks that are heat treated after fermentation.
  • 11.4 Other sugars and syrups (e.g. xylose, maple syrup, sugar toppings) — GMP
    • Note 258 Excluding maple syrup.
  • 13.2 Complementary foods for infants and young children — GMP
    • Note XS73 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Baby Foods (CODEX STAN 73-1981).
CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 263and 3 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand5,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 54 GMP
Canada—2 GMP
European Union—46 several limits, 5 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain—71 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—2 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius—4 GMP

GRAS notices to the FDA

A GRAS notice is a company’s conclusion that a substance is generally recognised as safe for the use it describes. FDA’s letter responds to that conclusion, for that notifier and that use. It is not a listing in 21 CFR, and it is not counted as a US permission above. The substance and use are as FDA’s inventory words them; this site matched the notice to this page by exact name.

  • GRN No. 1126 · Calcium acetate · Niacet Corporation

    Intended use: Intended for use as an antimicrobial agent at a maximum use level of 0.2% in baked goods, gelatins, puddings, and fillings; 0.15% in sweet sauces, toppings, and syrups, 0.02% in cheese; and 0.0001% for all other food categories. Calcium acetate is also intended to be used as a firming agent, flavor enhancer, flavoring agent or adjuvant, nutrient supplement, and stabilizer and thickener in food at levels not to exceed current good manufacturing practices.

    FDA’s response (2024-06-07): FDA has no questions

  • GRN No. 712 · Calcium acetate · Niacet Corporation

    Intended use: Firming agent, flavor enhancer, nutrient supplement, pH control agent, processing aid, sequestrant, stabilizer, thickener, and texturizer with no limitations other than current good manufacturing practices.

    FDA’s response (2018-02-05): At the notifier's request, FDA ceased to evaluate this notice

What it is made from

Made by neutralising acetic acid with calcium carbonate or hydroxide.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
62-54-4
InChIKey
VSGNNIFQASZAOI-UHFFFAOYSA-L
PubChem
CID 6116

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 98 %no less than 98 %
Loss on dryingno more than 11 %no more than 11 %
Leadno more than 2 mg/kgno more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 3 mg/kg—
Mercuryno more than 1 mg/kg—

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 263 Calcium acetate

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
200-540-9
Chemical name
Calcium acetate
Chemical formula
Anhydrous: C₄H₆O₄Ca
Monohydrate:
C₄H₆O₄Ca·H₂O
Molecular weight
Anhydrous: 158,17
Monohydrate:
176,18
Assay
Content not less than 98 % on the anhydrous basis
Description
Anhydrous calcium acetate is a white, hygroscopic, bulky, crystalline solid with a slightly bitter taste. A slight odour of acetic acid may be present. The monohydrate may be needles, granules or powder

Identification

pH
6,0-9,0 (10 % aqueous solution)
Test for acetate
Passes test
Test for calcium
Passes test

Purity criteria

Loss on drying
Not more than 11 % (155 °C to constant weight, for the monohydrate)
Water insoluble matter
Not more than 0,3 %
Formic acid, formates and other oxidisable substances
Not more than 1 000 mg/kg expressed as formic acid
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 263

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 263 Calcium Acetate

Synonyms: INS No. 263

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 17th JECFA (1973), published in FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 63rd JECFA (2004). An ADI 'not limited' was established at the 17th JECFA (1973)
Chemical names
Calcium acetate
C.A.S. number
62-54-4
Chemical formula
Anhydrous: C 4 H 6 CaO 4 Hydrates: C 4 H 6 CaO 4 · H 2 O; C 4 H 6 CaO 4 · xH 2 O (x < 1)
Formula weight
Anhydrous: 158.17; Monohydrate: 176.18
Assay
Not less than 98% after drying
DESCRIPTION
White, hygroscopic, bulky, crystalline solid; a slight odour of acetic acid may be present; the monohydrate may be needles, granules or powder.
FUNCTIONAL USES
Antimold and antirope agent, stabilizer, buffer
METHOD OF ASSAY
1.Calcium content: Dissolve in a beaker 2.5 g of the sample, weighed to the nearest mg, in 5 ml of hot dilute hydrochloric acid TS. Cool, transfer to a 250-ml volumetric flask, dilute to volume with water, and mix. Transfer 50 ml of the solution to a 400-ml beaker, add 100 ml of water, 25 ml of sodium hydroxide TS, 40 mg of murexide indicator preparation (an alternative indicator is hydroxynaphtol blue, of which 0.25 g is used - in this case the naphthol green TS is omitted), and 3 ml of naphthol green TS. Titrate with 0.05 M disodium ethylenediamine-tetraacetate until the solution is deep blue in colour. Each ml of 0.05 M disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate is equivalent to 7.909 mg of C 4 H 6 CaO 4 . 2. Acid content: Half fill a chromatographic column (1.5 cm in diameter, 20 cm long) with a strong cation-exchange resin (Amberlite IR 120, Amberlite IR 100, Duolit C III, Dorvex 50, Lewatit KS, Ion Exchanger I Merck). Add 0.1 N hydrochloric acid through the top of the column, with the outflow orifice closed until the resin is completely covered and let stand 1-2 h. Drain the acid and rinse the column with water (about 1 liter) until 20 ml of eluate forms a red colour, when one drop each of 0.02 N sodium hydroxide and phenolphthalein TS is added. Weigh, to the nearest mg, 0.05 g of the sample, previously dried at 155 o to constant weight, into a flask. Dissolve in 15 ml of water and pour slowly on to the column. Wash the flask and the column with about 200 ml of water and collect the total filtrate in a conical flask. Add two drops of phenolphthalein TS and titrate with 0.1 N sodium hydroxide using a microburette. Each ml of 0.1 N sodium hydroxide is equivalent to 7.909 mg of C4H6CaO4.

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Freely soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol
Test for acetate (Vol. 4)
Passes test
Test for calcium (Vol. 4)
Passes test

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4)
Not more than 11% (155 o to constant weight; monohydrate)
pH (Vol. 4)
6 - 9 (1 in 10 soln)
Water insolubles
Not more than 0.3% Dissolve 10 g of the sample, weighed to the nearest mg, in 100 ml of hot water. Filter through a Gooch crucible, tared to an accuracy of ±0.2 mg, and wash any residue with water. Dry the crucible for 2 h at 105 o . Cool, weigh and calculate as percentage. (The weight of the dried residue should not exceed 30 mg).
Formic acid and oxidizable impurities
Not more than traces Dissolve 1 g of the sample in 5 ml of water. Add 2.5 ml of 0.1 N potassium dichromate and 6 ml of sulfuric acid and allow to stand for 1 min. Add 20 ml of water, cool to 15 o and add 1 ml of potassium iodide TS. A faint yellow or brown colour should be produced immediately.
Aldehydes
Not more than traces Dissolve 2 g of the sample in 10 ml of water and distil. To the first 5 ml of the distillate, add 10 ml of mercuric chloride TS and make alkaline with N sodium hydroxide. Allow to stand for 5 min, and acidify with dilute sulfuric acid TS. The solution should show no more than a faint turbidity.
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 2 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Authorised in other additives, enzymes, flavourings and nutrients

These authorisations are not for use in food. They let this substance be used inside another additive, a food enzyme, a flavouring or a nutrient preparation — often as a carrier — and it reaches food only as part of that product. Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.

PartMay be used inMaximum levelCitation
Annex III, Part 1: Carriers in food additivesAll food additivesquantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 1
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additivesAll food additive preparationsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1" Note (1): Except enzymes authorised as food additives.quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 3: Food additives including carriers in food enzymesFood enzymesNote (1): Including enzymes authorised as food additives.In enzyme preparation: quantum satis In final food except beverages: quantum satis In beverages: quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 3
Annex III, Part 4: Food additives including carriers in food flavouringsAll flavouringsAuthorised as a member of Table 1 of Part 6, listed as "Table 1"quantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 4, via Table 1 of Part 6
Annex III, Part 5, Section A: Food additives added in nutrients except in nutrients intended to be used in foodstuffs listed in Part E, point 01.10, of Annex II and foodstuffs for infants and young children listed in Part E, point 13.1, of Annex IIAll nutrientsquantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 5, Section A

Every name it appears under

79 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E263

INS number

  • 263

CAS registry number

  • 62-54-4

As it appears in regulation

  • Calcium acetate
  • Calcium diacetate

Other names

  • Acetate of lime
  • acetatedecalcium
  • Acetic acid, calcium salt
  • Acetic acid, calcium salt (2:1)
  • Aceticacid,calciunsalt
  • Brown acetate
  • Brown Acetate of Lime
  • C4H6CaO4
  • Ca(OAc)2
  • Calcarea acetica
  • Calcium acetate
  • Calcium acetate (USP)
  • Calcium acetate (water < 5%)
  • Calcium Acetate 667 mg
  • Calcium acetate anhydrous
  • Calcium Acetate Capsules 667 mg
  • CALCIUM ACETATE EXTRA PURE, FCC, E 263
  • CALCIUM ACETATE HYDRATE PURE
  • CALCIUM ACETATE HYDRATE, 99.99%
  • calcium acetate salt
  • CALCIUM ACETATE SIGMAULTRA
  • CALCIUM ACETATEULTRA PURE
  • Calcium diacetate
  • calcium ethanoate
  • calcium(II) acetate
  • calciumacetate
  • Calphron
  • CCRIS 4921
  • E 263
  • Eliphos
  • Everose
  • FEMA No. 2228
  • Gray acetate
  • Gray Acetate of Lime
  • HSDB 928
  • INS NO.263
  • INS-263
  • Lime acetate
  • Lime pyrolignite
  • mineral supplement containing calcium acetate
  • Phosex
  • PhosLo
  • Phoslo (TN)
  • Phoslo Gelcaps
  • Phoslyra
  • Renacet
  • Sanopan
  • Sorbo-calcion
  • Teltozan
  • vinegarsalts
  • Y882YXF34X

Systematic names

  • Calcium diacetate

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADInot limited—JECFA1973

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 263?
E 263 is Calcium acetate. Calcium acetate is an acidity regulator, firming agent and mould inhibitor, used in bread and in some canned vegetables.
What is Calcium acetate used for in food?
It is listed as an acidity regulator — the role Canada, Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Calcium acetate permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Calcium acetate vegan?
Yes. Calcium acetate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

Machine-readable: a JSON record of this additive is given on request —how to ask for access.

Follow changes to Calcium acetate:Atom feed — regulatory events, and any change the weekly refresh detects in its provisions.