Its chemical formula is SiO2, which consists of silicon and oxygen.

There are two types of silicon dioxide:amorphousandcrystalline.

Amorphous silicon dioxide most commonly occurs in food products.

Spices on a kitchen counter

ArtistGNDphotography / Getty Images

However, crystalline silicon dioxide is most common in nature.

Some amorphous silicon dioxide is synthetic.

The food industry widely uses silicon amorphous dioxide as an anti-caking agent in processed foods.

Coffee creamer, spices, and powdered products often contain silicon dioxide to prevent clumping.

Some evidence suggests that silicon dioxide helps withcollagensynthesis and bone mineralization.

Apart from interest in health benefits, some concerns have been raised regarding the safety of silicon dioxide.

ArtistGNDphotography / Getty Images

Silicon Dioxide Safety

Silicon dioxide is generally considered safe in food products.

Like otherfood additives, it’s regulated and deemed safe for consumption in approved amounts and when manufactured correctly.

The following includes details about the health impact of silicon dioxide and how agencies regulate it to ensure safety.

Silicon dioxide’s primary purpose is to improve the quality and stability of these products.

It does this by preventing clumping and caking and improving the flow of products.

How Much Silicon Dioxide Is Safe?

Precautions

Some types of silicon dioxide may pose health risks, while others are generally considered safe.

Amorphous silicon dioxide is considered safe in foods and supplements as long as the amounts included are reasonable.

It’s also important to make informed decisions when choosing silicon dioxide products.

Summary

Silicon dioxide is a substance added to certain foods to improve their quality.

As an anti-caking agent, silicon dioxide prevents foods from clumping together and allows flow.

Talk with a healthcare provider if you’re still wondering about safely using silicon dioxide.

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