E 551 Silicon dioxide

What is E 551?

E 551 is the E number of Silicon dioxide. Silica, used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping, for example in spices, salt and powders.

What is E 551 used for?

E 551 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as anti-caking agent, carrier.

• Anti-caking agent: Anti-caking agents stop particles of a food from sticking together or forming lumps.
• Carrier: Carriers dissolve, dilute or disperse other additives, flavourings or nutrients without having a technical effect themselves.

Which foods may contain E 551?

According to the European Commission's database, E 551 may be used in 19 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
• Confectionery
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Food supplements

Is E 551 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 551 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 551 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Anti-caking agent: E 551" or "Anti-caking agent: Silicon dioxide".