Calcium glycerophosphate
A safe mineral supplement and stabiliser.
- Category
- Stabilisers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A calcium salt used as a thickener, gelling agent, and dietary calcium/phosphorus supplement.
How it is used in food
Calcium glycerophosphate supplies both calcium and phosphorus in a single soluble, well-tolerated salt, making it useful for fortifying beverages, dairy alternatives and supplements without the chalky mouthfeel of calcium carbonate. It also acts as a buffer and stabiliser, and its alkalinity means it helps neutralise acids — a property exploited in oral-care products and some acidic drinks.
Commonly found in- Dental products
- Dietary supplements
Health and safety
Safe and serves as a bioavailable source of minerals.
JECFA and national authorities have evaluated calcium glycerophosphate as a nutrient source and found no toxicological concern at use levels; the EU permits it as a source of calcium and phosphorus in food supplements and fortified foods. EFSA's assessments of glycerophosphate salts concluded the glycerophosphate moiety is hydrolysed and metabolised normally, so the safety question reduces to total calcium and phosphorus intake. Clinical interest centres on enamel remineralisation, where trials of glycerophosphate-containing dentifrices show modest benefit, and on its use in low-phosphate states.
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
- E383
Worth knowing
It is added to some chewing gums and toothpastes as an anti-caries agent: by raising the concentration of calcium and phosphate ions in saliva and buffering plaque acid, it supports remineralisation of early enamel lesions. The salt was historically marketed as a general 'nerve tonic' in the early twentieth century, a claim with no evidential basis.
Conclusion
A safe mineral supplement and stabiliser.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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