Calcium formate is a preservative that is responsible for the sterilization and long-term storage of products, preventing the appearance of fungus and various bacteria. Also, this food supplement is used as a salt substitute in diet food. Externally, calcium formate is a white crystalline powder. This substance is part of the juices of certain plants, as well as the biological fluid of a living organism.
The substance is obtained by saponification of formamide, using pressure under the influence of high temperatures. Impurities: acetate, oxalate, sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate.
Application of calcium formate
The permissible daily dose of the E238 supplement is not more than 3 mg per 1 kilogram of body weight. In Russia, this substance is prohibited, but was previously used as a salt substitute and preservative for soft drinks.
The amount of preservative should not exceed 210 mg per 1 liter of drink. In this case, a combination with formic and other acids is possible, but their content should also not exceed 360 mg per 1 liter of drink.
Calcium formate is often used to ferment various vegetables, especially cabbage. It is used not for canning, but for compaction.
It is important to consider the special properties of formates. They can only show their antimicrobial properties when they are in an acidic environment. Until recently, this additive was used for canning fish. Now this is an illegal violation, and safer substances are used for this case. Also, this additive is used for long-term storage of cosmetics, but at the same time, the dosage should be no more than 0,5%. Also, the E328 additive is used in the process of tanning leather and dyeing fabrics, as well as in wallpaper printing.
The effect of the E328 supplement on the body
E328 is a prohibited additive, as the impact on human health is estimated at the third level of danger.
It is worth noting that this substance adversely affects absolutely all systems in the human body. As a rule, a small amount of a substance in food cannot cause much harm, but this is provided that the products have been prepared according to standards.
This additive may be of particular danger to those who work with it. Therefore, when working with the additive, it is important to follow all safety rules: wear overalls and wear a respirator.