Silicon dioxide

Silicon dioxide is the most common mineral on earth (see also silicon). It is a component of the cell walls of numerous plants. This means that the substance is also contained in food in varying quantities. Silicon dioxide is not absorbed in the human intestine. It is excreted unchanged.

The silicon dioxide used as a food additive in the EU under the number E 551 is obtained from natural quartz sand. It is processed in the form of a highly dispersed silica (Silicium dioxidatum dispersum, Ph.Eur.2) into a very fine powder (with a particle size of 10-40nm).

The crystals of the powdered silica can absorb up to 40% water due to their enormous inner surface (in a purely physical way) without losing their powdery consistency. Silicon oxides are therefore ideal release agents. This special property is used in food technology to protect (powdery) food particles from clumping.

As a food additive: Under the number E 551, silica is mostly used as a separating agent in powdered foods to maintain their pourability. The maximum quantity limit for this is different; it is usually 10 g/kg. Silicon dioxide is only permitted for certain foodstuffs. These include: dry food in powder form, cheese, sliced or grated, seasoning, salt.

Pharmaceutical: Silicon dioxide is used as a carrier for liquids, creams, emulsions, suppositories etc. Furthermore as an adsorbent for keeping hygroscopic substances dry. As antistatic agent and coating agent for powders and powders.

Homeopathic: Pure precipitated silica containing water is used homeopathically in various chronic inflammatory processes in humans, including poor healing tendencies.

Cosmetics: Silicon compounds are used in various compounds and in different functions in cosmetic formulations.