Silicon Dioxide vs Tapioca Syrup: which is worse?

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.

What is Tapioca Syrup?

Tapioca syrup is produced by enzymatically or acid-hydrolyzing tapioca starch (derived from cassava root). It is often marketed as a 'clean label' alternative to corn syrup, particularly in organic and natural food products. Chemically, it is similar to corn syrup, consisting primarily of glucose polymers.

Documented risks

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.

Tapioca Syrup: Tapioca syrup contributes added sugar to the diet and has a high glycemic index comparable to corn syrup. A 2019 investigation by the Clean Label Project found that many 'organic' snack bars sweetened with tapioca syrup had sugar contents equivalent to candy, despite their 'natural' branding. The FDA has noted that tapioca syrup, when listed on ingredient labels without quantification, may obscure the total sugar content of a product. Health impacts are equivalent to those of other refined sugars.