Calcium Hydroxide

Calcium hydroxide is a compound used to balance acidity and firm up foods. It can also be used to fortify foods and beverages with calcium.

Found In
  • Beverages
  • Corn tortillas
  • Fortified drinks
  • Pickled foods
Also Known As
  • Calcium Hydrate
  • E526
  • Hydrated Lime
  • Slaked Lime
The Beverage Bottom Line

Calcium hydroxide is authorized for use in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.


International Assessments and Authorizations


U.S. Food And Drug Administration

Affirmation by FDA this ingredient is generally recognized as safe as a direct human food ingredient. ()

In 2006 and 2011, dietary reference intakes for calcium were reviewed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

In 2008, a health claim for calcium, vitamin D and osteoporosis.

In 1975, the health aspects of calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide as food ingredients were evaluated.

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European Food Safety Authority

Safe for intended uses. Authorized for use in the EU (nutrients, additives).

In 2015, EFSA issued an opinion on dietary reference intakes for calcium.

In 2009, 2010 (a, b), 2011 and 2016, EFSA assessed health claims for calcium.

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Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives

Safe for intended uses.

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Safe for intended uses. Permitted as a supplemental ingredient.

In 2006 and 2011, dietary reference intakes for calcium were reviewed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

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This page was last updated on 6/30/2025