Lactic Acid vs Silicon Dioxide: which is worse?

What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is an organic acid naturally produced during fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria. It gives fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese, and sauerkraut their characteristic tangy flavor. Commercial lactic acid used in food is produced by bacterial fermentation of glucose or lactose, or in some cases by chemical synthesis.

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.

Documented risks

Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of human metabolism (produced during anaerobic exercise). It is generally recognized as safe at food additive levels. Excessive consumption of foods acidified with lactic acid could theoretically contribute to dental erosion, as with all acidulants. For individuals with rare inborn errors of lactate metabolism, dietary lactic acid may require monitoring.

Silicon Dioxide: 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.