What is E559?

Aluminum silicate (or aluminium silicate) is a name commonly applied to chemical compounds which are derived from aluminium oxide, Al2O3 and silicon dioxide, SiO2 which may be anhydrous or hydrated, naturally occurring as minerals or synthetic. Their chemical formulae are often expressed as xAl2O3·ySiO2·zH2O. E559 sits in the E500–E599 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers acidity regulators and anti-caking agents.

What is E559 used for?

E559 belongs to the anti-caking agents group. Anti-caking agents stop powders clumping, as in salt and spices.

Is E559 safe?

E559 is considered safe at the levels used in food and is approved for use in the EU. “Safe” means it is approved in the EU and regarded as safe at the levels used in food.

How E559 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E559 either as the number “E559” or by the name “Aluminium silicate (Kaolin)” in the ingredient list, often after its function. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so an additive near the end is present only in small amounts.

Is E559 vegan?

Yes, E559 is suitable for vegans.