Calcium Silicate
Calcium Silicate
Snapshot
Calcium silicate is a synthetic compound used in supplements and food products as an anti-caking agent, with potential mineral support for bone and connective tissue health.
What is Calcium Silicate?
Calcium silicate is a white, odorless powder composed of calcium oxide and silicon dioxide. While primarily used as an anti-caking agent in foods and dietary supplements, it may also serve as a source of calcium and silicon — two minerals linked to bone strength and connective tissue integrity.
Where It Comes From
Calcium silicate is manufactured through a controlled chemical reaction between calcium oxide (lime) and silicon dioxide (sand). It is commonly used in the food, pharmaceutical, and construction industries due to its absorbent and insulating properties.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Calcium silicate contains calcium, which supports bone health, and silicon, which is associated with collagen production, joint flexibility, and mineral deposition in bones. Though present in small amounts, both minerals contribute to structural health in the body.
Health Benefits
While not primarily used as a mineral supplement, calcium silicate may provide trace amounts of calcium and silicon that contribute to healthy bones, cartilage, and skin. Silicon, in particular, has been studied for its role in enhancing collagen formation and bone density. Its most notable role remains in stabilizing powdered formulas by preventing clumping and moisture buildup.
Recommended Dosage
There is no established dietary dosage for calcium silicate, as it is typically consumed in trace amounts as part of processed foods or supplements. The FDA recognizes it as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) at levels up to 2% of the total product weight.
How to Use It
Calcium silicate is not typically taken as a stand-alone supplement. It is included in powdered supplement formulas, tablets, and fortified foods as a flow agent to maintain consistency and prevent caking.
Who Should Use It?
Consumers of powdered or encapsulated supplements may benefit indirectly from calcium silicate as it helps ensure accurate dosing and product stability. Those interested in additional silicon intake should consider dedicated supplements or food sources like whole grains, oats, and vegetables.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
When consumed in appropriate amounts as a food additive, calcium silicate is considered safe. Excessive exposure in industrial settings (e.g., inhalation) may pose respiratory risks, but these are not relevant to dietary intake. Individuals seeking therapeutic benefits from calcium or silicon should consider more bioavailable sources.
Final Thoughts
Calcium silicate plays an important behind-the-scenes role in supplement and food formulation. While it may contribute minor nutritional value, its primary benefit lies in maintaining product quality and consistency.
Scientific Studies
Jugdaohsingh, R. (2007). Silicon and bone health. The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 11(2), 99–110. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17435951/
Powell, J. J., et al. (1999). Silicon: a possible factor in bone health. Nutrition Reviews, 57(9), 274–277. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.1999.tb05782.x
FDA GRAS Notice Inventory. Calcium Silicate. https://www.fda.gov/