Is Silicon Dioxide Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Silicon Dioxide is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called silica. (E551) CAS 7631-86-9.
Other names: silica, E551, INS 551, amorphous silica, SiO2
Is Silicon Dioxide banned in the EU?
| 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 |
What is Silicon Dioxide?
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.
Why is Silicon Dioxide used in food?
Prevents caking and clumping in powdered spices, salt, baking powder, and powdered beverages; also used as a carrier for flavorings.
Is Silicon Dioxide dangerous? Documented risks
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.
Common US products containing Silicon Dioxide
- High Protein Baked Bar Chocolate Peanut ButterRobert Irvine's Fit Crunch
- CHEEZY CRACKERSBACK TO NATURE
- Naan Crisps Garlic & CheeseStonefire
- OPI Nail Lacquer Big Apple RedOPI
- Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail ColorSally Hansen
- Essie Nail Polish Ballet SlippersEssie
- Revlon Nail Enamel Cherry PopRevlon
- Buddha BowlTattooed Chef
How to avoid Silicon Dioxide: safer alternatives
Calcium silicate and tricalcium phosphate are alternative anti-caking agents. Rice flour and cornstarch are used in some applications.
Frequently asked questions about Silicon Dioxide
Is silicon dioxide in food safe?
Food-grade amorphous silicon dioxide is considered safe by both FDA and EFSA. It is not the same as industrial crystalline silica.
Is silicon dioxide banned in the EU?
No. It is authorized as E551 in the EU, though EFSA noted uncertainty about nanoparticle forms.
Why is silicon dioxide in my spices?
It prevents moisture absorption and clumping, keeping powdered spices free-flowing.
Does silicon dioxide absorb into the body?
It is largely insoluble and passes through the digestive system without significant absorption at food additive levels.
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Sources
- Re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive — EFSA
- FDA 21 CFR 172.480 — Silicon dioxide — FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.