Magnesium carbonate

E number E504INS 504(i)CAS 39409-82-0

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

Listed as acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · anticaking agents (CA, US, Codex) · flour treatment agents (US, Codex) · lubricants and release agents (CA, US) · flavour enhancers (US) · humectants (US) · colour retention agents (Codex) · nutrient supplements (US) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · formulation aids (US) · synergists (US) · processing aids (US)

Magnesium carbonate is an anticaking agent, acidity regulator and magnesium source, used in powdered foods, table salt and cocoa processing.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Magnesium carbonate 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

56 food categories

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

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
  • 12.1.1 Salt — 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
  • 13.3 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
  • 9.1.2 Uncooked crustacea — 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 55 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

9 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Garlic salt, except garlic salt used in preparations of meat and meat by-products; Onion salt, except onion salt used in preparations of meat and meat by-product. Purpose: Anticaking agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 2.0%. If used in any combination with other anticaking agents, the total combined amount not to exceed 2.0%. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Anticaking Agents (List 1), item M.1(a)
  • In: Icing sugar. Purpose: Anticaking agent. Limit: Not to be used with starch in accordance with paragraph 15.1.5(b) of Volume 15 of the Food Compositional Standards Document. If used singly, the amount not to exceed 1.5%. If used in any combination with other anticaking agents, the total combined amount not to exceed 1.5%. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Anticaking Agents (List 1), item M.1(b)
  • In: Salt, except salt used in preparations of meat and meat by-product. Purpose: Anticaking agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 1.0%, or 2.0% in the case of fine grained salt. If used in any combination with other anticaking agents, the total combined amount not to exceed 1.0%, or 2.0% in the case of fine grained salt. This total combined amount does not include any of propylene glycol, potassium ferrocyanide or sodium ferrocyanide that may be added up to their respective maximum levels of use set out in this list. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Anticaking Agents (List 1), item M.1(c)
  • In: Unstandardized dry mixes, except unstandardized dry mixes used in preparations of meat and meat by-product. Purpose: Anticaking agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Anticaking Agents (List 1), item M.1(d)
  • In: Unstandardized confectionery. Purpose: Release agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item M.1(a)
  • In: White flour, Whole wheat flour. Purpose: Carrier of benzoyl peroxide. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 900 ppm. If used in any combination with other carriers of benzoyl peroxide, set out in this list or in sections 12.1.1 and 12.1.3 of Volume 12 of the Food Compositional Standards Document, the total combined amount not to exceed 900 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item M.1(b)
  • In: Cocoa products as defined in Volume 4 of the Food Compositional Standards Document. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. If used singly, the amount of magnesium carbonate in neutralizing value, calculated from its weight, not to exceed the neutralizing value of 5% anhydrous potassium carbonate by weight of the cocoa product, calculated on a fat-free basis. If used in any combination with other acidity regulators, the total combined amount of these acidity regulators in neutralizing value, calculated from their respective weight, not to exceed the neutralizing value of 5% anhydrous potassium carbonate by weight of the cocoa product, calculated on a fat-free basis. This total combined amount does not include any of citric acid, phosphoric acid or tartaric acid that may be added up to their respective maximum levels of use set out in this list. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item M.1(a)
  • In: Ice cream mix; Ice milk mix. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item M.1(b)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item M.1(c)
Health Canadaand 8 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

73 food categories

highest permitted level 70,000 mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 16Authorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.2 ripened cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis. only ripened products.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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.
  • 12.1.1 Salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 juicesAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 productsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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_drinksAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 otherAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 perryAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 wineAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 MeadAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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) 2019/787Authorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 winesAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 drinksAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 cocktailsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 %Authorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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’,Authorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 ingredientsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 vegetablesAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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/ECAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 70,000 mg/kgAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Carbonates. ML = 70000 mg/kg. E 170, E 500 - 504, E 524 - 528 and E 530: 7 % on dry matter, without fat, expressed as potassium carbonates.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 GnocchiAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 rollsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 productsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 limitsAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 roeAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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

highest permitted level 70,000 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.2 Ripened cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis. only ripened products.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.1 Salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 70,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 500-504, Carbonates. ML = 70000. Note (*): E 170, E 500-504, E 524-528 and E 530: 7 % on dry matter, without fat, expressed as potassium carbonates (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted 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 satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 504, Magnesium carbonates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 253, 炭酸マグネシウム (“Magnesium Carbonate” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 253, 炭酸マグネシウム (“Magnesium Carbonate” 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), 탄산마그네슘 (“Magnesium Carbonate”, the English the Code prints beside it); the Code marks it as also usable as a nutrient fortifier; 3. 영양강화제 (nutrient fortifiers), 탄산마그네슘; nutrient: 마그네슘 (Mg); the Code marks it as also usable as a general food additive. Main use (주용도) of 탄산마그네슘: 산도조절제, 팽창제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 탄산마그네슘: (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 184.1425retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

16 food categories

highest permitted level 15,000 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.1.3 Fluid Buttermilk (plain) — GMP
    • Note 261 For use in heat-treated buttermilk only.
  • 01.2.1.2 Fermented milks (plain), heat-treated after fermentation — GMP
    • Note 631 Except for use in plain fermented milks and drinks based on fermented milks that are heat treated after fermentation conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) as an acidity regulator.
  • 01.5.1 Milk powder and cream powder (plain) — GMP
    • Note 544 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Milk Products and Cream Powder (CXS 207-1999): bone phosphate (INS 542), calcium carbonate (INS 170(i)), calcium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 341(i)), calcium hydrogen phosphate (INS 341(ii)), calcium silicate (INS 552), magnesium carbonate (INS 504(i)), magnesium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 343(i)), magnesium hydrogen phosphate (INS 343(ii)), magnesium oxide (INS 530), magnesium silicate, synthetic (INS 553(i)), silicon dioxide, amorphous (INS 551), talc (INS 553(iii)), tricalcium phosphate (INS 341(iii)), and trimagnesium phosphate (INS 343(iii)) as anticaking agents only, singly or in combination at 10,000 mg/kg.
    • Note 549 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995): bone phosphate (INS 542), calcium carbonate (INS 170(i)), calcium silicate (INS 552), hydroxypropyldistarch phosphate (INS 1442), magnesium carbonate (INS 504(i)), magnesium oxide (INS 530), magnesium silicate, synthetic (INS 553(i)), microcrystalline cellulose (cellulose gel) (INS 460(i)), powdered cellulose (INS 460(ii)), silicon dioxide, amorphous (INS 551), talc (INS 553(iii)), calcium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 341(i)), calcium hydrogen phosphate (INS 341(ii)), tricalcium phosphate (INS 341(iii)) magnesium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 343(i)), magnesium hydrogen phosphate (INS 343(ii)) and trimagnesium phosphate (INS 343(iii)), as anticaking agents only, singly or in combination at 4,400 mg/kg, noting the total amount of phosphorus shall not exceed 4,400 mg/kg.
    • Note 550 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995) as an acidity regulator.
  • 01.8.2 Dried whey and whey products, excluding whey cheeses — 10,000 mg/kg
    • Note XS331 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dairy Permeate Powders (CXS 331-2017).
  • 04.2.2.7 Fermented vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera) and seaweed products, excluding fermented soybean products of food categories 06.8.6, 06.8.7, 12.9.1, — 5,000 mg/kg
    • Note 36 On the residual level basis.
    • Note XS294 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gochujang (CXS 294-2009).
  • 06.2.1 Flours — 1,500 mg/kg
    • Note 170 Except for use in products conforming to the Regional Standard for Edible Sago Flour (Asia) (CXS 301R-2011) as a flour treatment agent.
  • 09.2.2 Frozen battered fish, fish fillets and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
    • Note 16 For use in glaze, coatings or decorations for fruit, vegetables, meat or fish only.
    • Note XS166 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets – Breaded or in Batter (CODEX STAN 166-1989).
  • 09.2.3 Frozen minced and creamed fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
    • Note 16 For use in glaze, coatings or decorations for fruit, vegetables, meat or fish only.
  • 09.2.4 Cooked and/or fried fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
  • 09.2.5 Smoked, dried, fermented, and/or salted fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
    • Note XS167 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of Fishes (CODEX STAN 167-1989).
    • Note XS189 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Shark Fins (CODEX STAN 189-1993).
    • Note XS222 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Crackers from Marine and Freshwater Fish, Crustaceans and Molluscan Shellfish (CODEX STAN 222-2001).
    • Note XS236 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Boiled Dried Salted Anchovies (CODEX STAN 236-2003).
    • Note XS244 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring and Salted Sprat (CODEX STAN 244-2004).
    • Note XS311 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Smoked Fish, Smoked-flavoured Fish and Smoke-dried Fish (CODEX STAN 311-2013).
  • 11.1.2 Powdered sugar, powdered dextrose — 15,000 mg/kg
    • Note 56 Excluding products where starch is present.
    • Note 465 For products conforming to the Standard for Sugars (CXS 212-1999) as anticaking agents only: Calcium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 341(i)), calcium hydrogen phosphate (INS 341(ii)), tricalcium phosphate (INS 341(iii)), magnesium dihydrogen phosphate (INS 343(i)), magnesium hydrogen phosphate (INS 343(ii), trimagnesium phosphate (INS 343(iii)), magnesium carbonate (INS 504(i)), bone phosphate (INS 542), silicon dioxide, amorphous (INS 551), calcium silicate (INS 552), and magnesium silicate, synthetic (INS 553(i)) singly or in combination but still within prescribed separate individual maximum levels.
  • 11.4 Other sugars and syrups (e.g. xylose, maple syrup, sugar toppings) — GMP
    • Note 258 Excluding maple syrup.
  • 12.1.1 Salt — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — GMP
  • 12.2.1 Herbs and spices — GMP
    • Note 534 For herbs use is limited to herbs that have been ground or processed into powder only, as an anticaking agent.
    • Note XS326 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Black, White and Green Peppers (CODEX STAN 326-2017).
    • Note XS351 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Floral Parts - Saffron (CXS 351-2022).
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions, and other hot cereal and grain beverages, excluding cocoa — GMP
    • Note 160 For use in ready-to-drink products and pre-mixes for ready-to-drink products only.
CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 504(i)and 17 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 Zealand—56 GMP
Canada—5 GMP, 4 no quantity stated
European Union70,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 46 several limits, 4 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain70,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 70 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius1,500 mg/kg – 15,000 mg/kg4 numeric limit, 14 GMP

What it is made from

Obtained by mining and refining magnesite, or precipitated from magnesium salt solutions.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
39409-82-0
InChIKey
UOVKYUCEFPSRIJ-UHFFFAOYSA-D
PubChem
CID 73415762

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 24 %no less than 24 %
Leadno more than 2 mg/kgno more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 4 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 504(i) Magnesium carbonate

Magnesium carbonate is a basic hydrated or a monohydrated magnesium carbonate or a mixture of the two.

Synonyms: Hydromagnesite

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
208-915-9
Chemical name
Magnesium carbonate
Chemical formula
MgCO₃ · nH₂O
Assay
Not less than 24 % and not more than 26,4 % of Mg
Description
Odourless, light, white friable masses or as a bulky white powder

Identification

Test for magnesium
Passes test
Test for carbonate
Passes test
Solubility
Practically insoluble both in water or ethanol

Purity criteria

Acid insoluble matter
Not more than 0,05 %
Water soluble matter
Not more than 1,0 %
Calcium
Not more than 0,4 %
Arsenic
Not more than 4 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 504(i)

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 504(i) Magnesium Carbonate

A basic hydrated or a normal hydrated magnesium carbonate or a mixture of the two

Synonyms: INS No. 504(i)

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 9th JECFA (1965)
Chemical names
Magnesium carbonate
C.A.S. number
546-93-0
Assay
Not less than 24.0% and not more than 26.4% of Mg
DESCRIPTION
Odourless, light, white friable masses or as a bulky white powder
FUNCTIONAL USES
Anticaking agent, antibleaching agent
METHOD OF ASSAY
Weigh 1 g of the sample to the nearest 0.1 mg, and transfer to a 250 ml conical flask. Pipette into the flask 50 ml of N sulfuric acid and swirl to dissolve. Titrate the excess acid with N sodium hydroxide solution, using methyl orange TS as indicator. Subtract from the volume of N sulfuric acid consumed the number of ml of N sulfuric acid corresponding to the weight of Ca in the sample taken, using as a factor 20.04 mg of Ca for each ml of N sulfuric acid. The difference is the volume of N sulfuric acid used to neutralize the magnesium carbonate and each ml is equivalent to 12.16 of Mg.

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Practically insoluble in water; insoluble in ethanol
Test for carbonate (Vol. 4)
Passes test
Test for magnesium (Vol. 4)
Passes test

Purity criteria

Acid insoluble substances
Not more than 0.05% Weigh 5 g of the sample to the nearest mg, and mix with 75 ml of water. Add hydrochloric acid in small portion, with agitation until no more of the sample dissolves, and boil for 5 min. If an insoluble residue remains, filter, wash well with water until the last washing is free from chloride, ignite, cool and weigh. Calculate as percentage.
Water soluble substances
Not more than 1% Weigh 2 g of the sample to the nearest mg. Add 100 ml of freshly boiled and cooled water, boil while stirring, cool and filter. Evaporate a 50 ml portion of the filtrate to dryness on a water bath, and dry the residue at 120 o for 3 h. Cool, weigh and calculate as percentage. (The weight of the residue should not exceed 10 mg).
Calcium
Not more than 0.4% Weigh 1 g of the sample to the nearest 0.1 mg and dissolve in a mixture of 3 ml of sulfuric acid and 22 ml of water. Add 50 ml of ethanol, and allow the mixture to stand overnight. If crystals of magnesium sulfate separate, warm the mixture to about 50 o to dissolve. Filter through a tared previously ignited porcelain filter crucible and wash the precipitate several times with a mixture of 2 volumes of ethanol and 1 volume of dilute sulfuric acid TS. Ignite the crucible and contents at a dull red heat, cool and weigh. The weight of calcium sulfate obtained, multiplied by 0.294, gives the equivalent of calcium in the sample taken for the test.
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 enzymesCan be used as a carrier: Yes Note (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 nutrientsCan be used as a carrier: Yesquantum satisRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 5, Section A

Every name it appears under

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

E number

  • E504

INS number

  • 504(i)
  • 504(ii)

CAS registry number

  • 12125-28-9
  • 39409-82-0
  • 546-93-0

As it appears in regulation

  • Magnesium carbonate
  • Magnesium carbonates

Other names

  • Basic magnesium carbonate
  • CARBONIC ACID, MAGNESIUM SALT (1:1), MIXT. WITH MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE, HYDRATE
  • CCRIS 7884
  • E 504(i)
  • HYDRATED BASIC MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
  • HYDRATED BASIC MAGNESIUM CARBONATE (MART.)
  • Hydromagnesite
  • INS NO.504(II)
  • INS-504(II)
  • Kinsei
  • Magnesium carbonate
  • Magnesium carbonate basic
  • MAGNESIUM CARBONATE HYDROXIDE [MI]
  • Magnesium hydrogen carbonateMagnesium subcarbonate (light or heavy)Hydrated basic magnesium carbonateMagnesium carbonate hydroxide
  • Magnesium hydroxide carbonate
  • MAGNESIUM SUBCARBONATE (LIGHT OR HEAVY)
  • Marinco C
  • YQO029V1L4

Systematic names

  • Carbonic acid, magnesium salt (1:1), mixt. with magnesium hydroxide (mg(oh)2), hydrate

Hazard reference values

No reference value for this substance in the sources we hold.

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 504?
E 504 is Magnesium carbonate. Magnesium carbonate is an anticaking agent, acidity regulator and magnesium source, used in powdered foods, table salt and cocoa processing.
What is Magnesium carbonate used for in food?
It is listed as an acidity regulator and an anticaking agent — the role Canada, Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Magnesium carbonate 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 Magnesium carbonate vegan?
Yes. Magnesium carbonate 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.

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