Calcium inosinate

Calcium Inosinate is a food additive often used in the food industry. It is known for its flavor-enhancing properties and is commonly found in a variety of products, including snacks, instant noodles, and processed meats.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Calcium inosinate is a calcium salt of inosinic acid. It has the chemical formula C10H11N4O8P·Ca and is characterized by its white crystalline appearance. The compound is soluble in water and has a slightly sweet taste.

Uses

The primary use of calcium inosinate is as a flavor enhancer in food. It is often combined with monosodium glutamate (MSG) and disodium guanylate to produce a synergistic effect that enhances the overall taste of food.

In addition to its use in the food industry, calcium inosinate is also used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used as a component in some dietary supplements due to its potential health benefits.

Health Effects

While calcium inosinate is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are some potential health concerns associated with its consumption. Some studies have suggested that excessive intake of calcium inosinate may lead to hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood.

Regulation

In the United States, calcium inosinate is regulated by the FDA. It is classified as a food additive and is subject to specific labeling requirements. In the European Union, it is designated as E633 and is also subject to regulation.

See Also

• Food additives
• Flavor enhancer
• Inosinic acid