Bentonite
Clay used to clarify wine and juice.
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A naturally occurring silicate or magnesium mineral used primarily to prevent powders from clumping together.
How it is used in food
Clarifies wine and fruit juices by binding to cloudy proteins and settling them to the bottom.
Commonly found in- Chewing gum
- Spices
- Grated cheese
- Wine clarification
Health and safety
None known, and in wine it is mostly not consumed at all: it binds the proteins that cause haze and is then filtered out before bottling. Anything remaining is inert and unabsorbed.
Used largely as a processing aid; no safety concern identified at the residual levels involved.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E558
Worth knowing
It is an absorbent clay formed from ancient volcanic ash.
Conclusion
This naturally occurring clay presents very little risk in a standard diet. When used to clarify wine, it binds to cloudy proteins and is filtered out before bottling, leaving only inert and unabsorbed traces behind. It raises no safety concerns at the residual levels found in food.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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