Ingredient Information

Function

Calcium lactate is used as an acid regulator and flour treatment to improve the qualities of dough. Due to concerns about calcium deficiency in adults and children, calcium lactate is used to fortify products such as breakfast cereals, juices, dairy drinks, and powdered drink mixes with additional calcium.

Calcium lactate has preservative qualities and is added to foods to prevent and slow the growth of yeast and mold. Foods, such as, condensed milk, jams, jellies, and marmalade can contain calcium lactate as a preservative. It is also used to prevent tooth decay and is added to sugar free chewing gum.

Other Use and Industries

Calcium lactate is used in the manufacture of soap, glass, paper, and textiles. It is used as a firming agent to lengthen the life of fresh cut fruit. Calcium lactate is used medicinally as an antacid, and to treat calcium deficiency, and muscle cramps. Calcium lactate is sold as a supplement. It is known to aid in the adsorption of calcium and magnesium.

Health Effects

There are no reported health effects from the consumption of calcium lactate as a food additive.

Origins

Calcium lactate is produced by reacting lactic acid with calcium carbonate. Lactic acid is a fermentation product made by lactic acid bacteria as they metabolize carbohydrates like corn starch or beet sugar.