Loading…
Answer: Silicon Dioxide is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: McCormick Spices, Morton Salt, Clabber Girl Baking Powder.
TL;DR: Silicon Dioxide is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called silica. (E551) CAS 7631-86-9.
Other names: silica, E551, INS 551, amorphous silica, SiO2
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | McCormick Spices, Morton Salt, Clabber Girl Baking Powder, Coffee-Mate Creamer, Various protein powders |
| CAS number | 7631-86-9 |
Silicon dioxide (silica) is a naturally occurring mineral compound used as an anti-caking agent in powdered and granular foods. The food-grade form is amorphous (non-crystalline) synthetic silica, distinct from the crystalline quartz form associated with lung disease. It absorbs moisture and prevents clumping in powders.
Prevents caking and clumping in powdered spices, salt, baking powder, and powdered beverages; also used as a carrier for flavorings.
Food-grade amorphous silicon dioxide is generally recognized as safe. EFSA re-evaluated it in 2018 and concluded there was no safety concern at typical dietary exposure levels; however, the panel noted uncertainty about nanoparticle forms. The food form should not be confused with crystalline silica (quartz) dust, which is a recognized carcinogen when inhaled occupationally. Ingested amorphous silica passes through the body largely unabsorbed.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Silicon Dioxidewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Calcium silicate and tricalcium phosphate are alternative anti-caking agents. Rice flour and cornstarch are used in some applications.
Food-grade amorphous silicon dioxide is considered safe by both FDA and EFSA. It is not the same as industrial crystalline silica.
No. It is authorized as E551 in the EU, though EFSA noted uncertainty about nanoparticle forms.
It prevents moisture absorption and clumping, keeping powdered spices free-flowing.
It is largely insoluble and passes through the digestive system without significant absorption at food additive levels.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Silicon Dioxide or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.
Audited products that don't contain Silicon Dioxide.
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.