Calcium formate
A feed preservative not meant for human food.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Calcium formate is the calcium salt of formic acid, used mainly in animal feed.
How it is used in food
Acidifies feed and suppresses spoilage organisms while also supplying calcium.
Commonly found in- Animal feed preservation and acidification
Health and safety
It is not authorised for human food in the EU, though it is an authorised feed additive. Both parts of it — calcium and formate — are handled routinely by the body, so the concern is the missing food authorisation rather than toxicity.
Authorised as a feed additive in the EU; not authorised as a food additive for human consumption.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (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
- E238
Worth knowing
It is one of the additives that is legal in the animal’s feed but not in your food — the two lists are assessed separately.
Conclusion
A feed preservative not meant for human food.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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