Eat or Avoid
E572

Magnesium Stearate

Also known as: Magnesium octadecanoate

Acidity RegulatorsEmulsifiers

Safety rating

Generally Safe

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid

Purpose and Function

Magnesium stearate is used as an emulsifier to stabilize food products and prevent separation, and as an anti-caking agent preventing clumping in powdered foods and supplements.

Commonly found in

  • Powdered foods and dietary supplements
  • Tablet coatings

Key functions

  • Stabilizes emulsions
  • Prevents clumping in powdered products

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort — bloating or diarrhea
  2. 02Rare allergic reactions in those sensitive to magnesium

References

    Related Additives