
What is the chemical name of calcium sulfate?
Calcium sulfate. Calcium sulfate (or calcium sulphate) is the inorganic compound with the formula CaSO4 and related hydrates. In the form of γ-anhydrite (the anhydrous form), it is used as a desiccant. One particular hydrate is better known as plaster of Paris, and another occurs naturally as the mineral gypsum. It has many uses in industry.
Where can calcium sulfate be found naturally?
Calcium sulfate can be found naturally in limestones. Commercially available calcium sulfate is obtained from gypsum. 1,2 Anticaking agent: prevents powder caking, lumping or agglomeration. Coloring adjunct: aids in the preservation of color in coatings.
Is calcium sulfate safe in food?
PART 184 -- DIRECT FOOD SUBSTANCES AFFIRMED AS GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Sec. 184.1230 Calcium sulfate. (a) Calcium sulfate (CaSO4, CAS Reg. No. 7778-18-9 or CaSO4-2H2O, CAS Reg. No. 10101-41-4), also known as plaster of Paris, anhydrite, and gypsum, occurs naturally and exists as a fine, white to slightly yellow-white odorless powder.
Is calcium sulfate soluble or insoluble in water?
All forms are white solids that are poorly soluble in water. Calcium sulfate causes permanent hardness in water. The compound exists in three levels of hydration corresponding to different crystallographic structures and to different minerals in nature: CaSO 4 ( anhydrite ): anhydrous state.

Is calcium sulphate natural?
Assorted References. Calcium sulfate, CaSO4, is a naturally occurring calcium salt. It is commonly known in its dihydrate form, CaSO4∙2H2O, a white or colourless powder called gypsum. As uncalcined gypsum, the sulfate is employed as a soil conditioner.
Where does calcium sulfate come from?
The main sources of calcium sulfate are naturally occurring gypsum and anhydrite, which occur at many locations worldwide as evaporites. These may be extracted by open-cast quarrying or by deep mining. World production of natural gypsum is around 127 million tonnes per annum.
Is calcium sulfate harmful to humans?
Calcium sulfate is a relatively non-hazardous chemical. Any hazards are due primarily to the physical hardness of the particles. Repeated or prolonged contact can irritate the skin and eyes. Breathing anhydrite particles can irritate the nose and throat, causing a sore throat, nosebleeds and shortness of breath.
Is calcium sulphate safe in food?
Is calcium sulfate safe to eat? Calcium sulfate added directly to human food is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 11). Calcium sulphate is an approved food additive (E 516) in the European Union 12).
What foods contain calcium sulfate?
Creams, dairy-based drinks, condensed milk, milk powder, cheese, whey and dairy-based desserts can all contain calcium sulfate. Calcium sulfate is sometimes used as a flour treatment agent, making it common in grain-based foods, such as pastas, breakfast cereals, batters, rice products and bakery products.
Is calcium sulphate vegan?
Calcium Sulfate is vegan.
Is calcium sulphate healthy?
Calcium sulfate can be used as a calcium supplement in the fortification of bread and flours. It is considered safe for daily consumption up to 8.5 g of anhydrous calcium sulfate per day, this value corresponds to 2500 mg of calcium per day.
Is calcium sulfite harmful?
* Calcium Hydrogen Sulfite is a CORROSIVE CHEMICAL and contact can irritate and burn the skin and eyes. * Breathing Calcium Hydrogen Sulfite can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing.
Why is calcium sulfate in tofu?
Calcium sulfate is the most traditional and widely used coagulant for tofu. It is chosen as a coagulant primarily because it does not mask the taste of the soybeans, allowing premium tofu makers to preserve and highlight the flavors and fragrances of beans prized in Asia.
Does milk have calcium sulfate?
Calcium Sulfate is dairy free. Calcium Sulfate does not contain milk and should be safe for those with a milk allergy.
What is calcium sulphate more commonly known as?
Calcium sulfate (CaSO4) is one of several sulfate scales and is also called gypsum.
What do we use calcium sulfate for?
Calcium sulfate is a calcium salt and an inorganic calcium salt. A calcium salt that is used for a variety of purposes including: building materials, as a desiccant, in dentistry as an impression material, cast, or die, and in medicine for immobilizing casts and as a tablet excipient.
Is calcium sulfate a milk product?
Calcium Sulfate is dairy free. Calcium Sulfate does not contain milk and should be safe for those with a milk allergy.
What is calcium sulphate more commonly known as?
Calcium sulfate (CaSO4) is one of several sulfate scales and is also called gypsum.
Is calcium sulfate a limestone?
The key difference between gypsum and limestone is that the calcium sulfate is the main constituent in gypsum whereas calcium carbonate is the main constituent of limestone. Limestone and gypsum are minerals that form from calcium salts; limestone contains calcium carbonate while gypsum contains CaSO4·2H2O.
What is Calcium Sulfate?
Calcium sulfate is a food additive used as an anticaking agent, dough conditioner and strengthener, flour treatment agent, pH regulator, thickenner and yeast food. It is a white or white-yellow fine odorless powder. 1
Can you substitute sodium sulfate for brown bread?
As a sodium sulfate substitute: it can replace up to 32% of sodium in the manufacturer of brown bread without affecting palatability and overall product quality.
Is calcium sulfate GRAS?
Calcium sulfate is considered GRAS by the FDA for its direct addition to food products, in levels that do not exceed good manufacturing practices. 2
What foods contain calcium sulfate?
Creams, dairy-based drinks, condensed milk, milk powder, cheese, whey and dairy-based desserts can all contain calcium sulfate. Calcium sulfate is sometimes used as a flour treatment agent, making it common in grain-based foods, such as pastas, breakfast cereals, batters, rice products and bakery products.
What is the purpose of calcium sulfate?
Calcium sulfate is sometimes used to make tofu. Calcium sulfate, a food additive used to stabilize and firm foods and regulate their acidity levels, is found in a variety of processed foods.
What is acidic calcium sulfate used for?
Acidic calcium sulfate may be used to keep hot dogs from becoming contaminated with the foodborne illness listeria. Sausage casings, processed meats and poultry, preserved seafood products and preserved or dried egg products may also contain calcium sulfate.
Can you eat fresh fruits and vegetables with calcium sulfate?
Fresh fruit and vegetables aren't likely to contain calcium sulfate, but processed versions are. This includes processed fruits, dried vegetables, canned vegetables, vegetables in sauce and precooked vegetables. Buy fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables if you're trying to avoid calcium sulfate.
Is calcium sulfate safe?
Calcium sulfate, a food additive used to stabilize and firm foods and regulate their acidity levels, is found in a variety of processed foods. In the amounts typically found in food and supplements, calcium sulfate isn't likely to cause adverse effects and is generally regarded as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What are the properties of calcium sulfate?
Key properties of calcium sulfate are its rapid and complete resorption with minimal inflammatory response.26–29 Of course, this is due to the high solubility of calcium sulfate dihydrate. Exposure of calcium sulfate paste to blood or body fluids results in significant extension of setting time along with lowered mechanical strength. In addition, washout and heat generation could cause clinical problems and therefore preset calcium sulfate is also used as a calcium sulfate bone substitute.
What is calcium sulfate used for?
Calcium sulfate can be used for the reconstruction of bone defects, to generate bone formation as a GTR membrane, for sinus augmentation, and for ridge preservation. For example, Aichelmann-Reidy evaluated the clinical efficacy of a combination of calcium sulfate as a binder and barrier, and demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) to polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and DFDBA for the treatment of human periodontal intrabony defects in each of 19 patients with chronic periodontitis. It was found that calcium sulfate, when used as a binder and barrier in combination with DFDBA, supports significant clinical improvement in intrabony defects, evidenced in the form of reductions in probing depth, gains in clinical attachment level, and defect fill and resolution. The result was slightly better than the ePTTE group, but there was no significant difference. 39
What is gypsum made of?
Gypsum (calcium sulfate, CaSO4 ·2H 2 O) is a naturally occurring mineral used in different kinds of industrial application. When heated above 120 °C, a part of the chemically bound water is released and different mineral calcium sulfates like hemihydrate (CaSO 4 ·0.5H 2 O; formed at 130–160 °C) and anhydrite (CaSO 4; formed at 290–900 °C) are formed. Reaction of this partially or completely dehydrated gypsum with water leads to a setting and crystallization reaction which is the base of working as a binder. 204
How does calcium sulfate affect bone formation?
After the resorption of calcium sulfate, new bone is formed from adjacent host bone. The mechanism of bone formation after resorption of calcium sulfate has not been fully elucidated. It may be a complex of many factors. As stated, gradual resorption is thought to contribute to the similar system in GTR. In other words, resorbed calcium sulfate provides space for bone formation. Calcium sulfate also provides a surface to which osteoblasts can attach. 35 The Ca 2+ that is released upon the dissolution of calcium sulfate can be used as a source of inorganic ions in the formation of new bone. 36,37 Elevated Ca 2+ concentrations activate osteoblast genesis and function, and they may act as a stimulus in osteoblast differentiation. 20,22 Elevated calcium ion concentrations also exert a mitogenic effect on mesenchymal cells, mediated by the parathyroid/kidney/brain calcium-sensing receptor, PCaR. Similarly, osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, and nodulation of osteoid synthesis are stimulated by elevated calcium ion concentrations. 38
What is the setting and hardening reaction of calcium sulfate hemihydrate?
The setting and hardening reaction of calcium sulfate hemihydrate is a phase transformation from calcium sulfate hemihydrates to calcium sulfate dihydrate, and is known as a dissolution–precipitation reaction , as shown in eqns [II] and [III].
How does calcium sulfate replace bone?
Replacement of calcium sulfate in bone occurs by the prevention of downgrowth of fibrous connective tissue and resorption of set calcium sulfate, which is followed by formation of bone.
What is CaSO4 used for?
Calcium sulfate (CaSO4 ), also known as plaster of Paris, is an osteoconductive crystalline substance used for bone void fillers and for cranial defects.
What is it?
Calcium sulfate (CaO4S) is a calcium salt that is used for a variety of purposes including: building materials, as a desiccant (drying agent), in dentistry as an impression material, cast, or die, and in medicine for immobilizing casts and as an inactive ingredient tablet excipient and color glaze.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
What is a sulfate?
What are sulfates? Sulfate is a salt that forms when sulfuric acid reacts with another chemical. It’s a broader term for other synthetic sulfate-based chemicals you may be concerned about, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).
Why are sulfates bad for you?
Sulfates have developed a bad reputation over the years due to their production process and the myth that they’re carcinogens. The largest side effect sulfates may have is the irritation they cause to eyes, skin, or scalp. Try going sulfate-free for a week to see if it makes a difference for you.
Why are sulfates controversial?
Sulfates derived from petroleum are often controversial due to their origin . The biggest concern is the long-term side effects of sulfate production. Petroleum products are associated with climate change, pollution, and greenhouse gases. Sulfates can also be found in some plant products.
What are some natural alternatives to soap?
Natural alternatives include the following: For cleaning skin and hair: Opt for solid and oil-based soaps and shampoos rather than liquid. Some products to consider include African black soap and body cleansing oils. Lather and foam aren’t crucial to cleaning skin or hair —sulfate-free products can also do the job.
What percentage of shampoo is SLS?
shampoos. 10 to 25 percent. The concentration of SLS in cleaning products may be higher. As with many cleaning products, whether SLS-free or not, prolonged exposure and skin contact to high concentrations can cause irritation. Remember to keep windows open or have a source of ventilation to prevent lung irritation.
Can sulfates cause acne?
For people with sensitive skin, sulfates may also clog pores and cause acne. Many products have a lower concentration of SLS or SLES in their formulation. But the longer the products stay in contact with your skin or eyes, ...
Is sulfate safe for infertility?
Are sulfates safe? There is no direct evidence linking SLS and SLES to cancer, infertility, or development issues. These chemicals may slowly build up in your body over long-term use, but the amounts are small. The highest risk of using products with SLS and SLES is irritation to your eyes, skin, mouth, and lungs.
Where is sulfur found in the body?
Sulfur is a chemical element that is naturally present in many amino acids and other important molecules in the body. In fact, after calcium and phosphorus, it is the third most abundant mineral in the human body. Sulfur is also found in many foods, such as garlic, onions, and broccoli. [14]
What is sulfa drug?
1. Sulfa (sulfonamide antimicrobials and sulfonamide non-antimicrobials) “Sulfa drugs” refers primarily to sulfonamide antimicrobials, such as sulfamethoxazole, sulfisoxazole, sulfafurazole, and sulfadiazine, containing sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen and other groups. Allergic reactions occur due to the actions of sulfonamide antimicrobials, ...
What are the two molecules that contain one sulfur atom surrounded by 2 or 3 oxygen atoms?
Glyburide (Glynase, Diabeta) Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) Sumatriptan (Imitrex) 2. Sulfite. Sulfite . Sulfites are molecules that contain one sulfur atom surrounded by 2 or 3 oxygen atoms. Sulfites occur naturally in some foods during the fermentation process, such as red wine.
Is sulfonamide a cross-allergen?
Sulfonamide non-antimicrobials include drugs such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, acetazolamide, sulfonylureas, and celecoxib. Sulfonamide antimicrobials and sulfonamide non-antimicrobials have different chemical structures, and there is no clinical evidence of cross-allergy. [7], [8] Sulfonamides were originally derived from red dye.
Can sulfonamide cause allergic reactions?
Allergic reactions occur due to the actions of sulfonamide antimicrobials, not the actual sulfur. Though 3 to 4% of patients claim to allergic to sulfa drugs, only 3% of these patients have a true allergy to sulfonamide antimicrobials. [1], [2], [3] True hypersensitivity reactions, such as rash and hives, will generally resolve within two weeks ...
Can you be allergic to sulfur?
Sulfur is a chemical element that is naturally present in human body and many foods. It is virtually impossible to be allergic to sulfur.
Is there cross-allergy between sulfonamides and sulfites?
Sulfites and sulfonamides have different chemical structures, and there is no evidence of cross-allergy between sulfites and sulfonamides. [11], [12]

Origin
Function
- Calcium sulfate serves several functions in baked goods:1,2 1. Anticaking agent: prevents powder caking, lumping or agglomeration. 2. Coloring adjunct: aids in the preservation of color in coatings. 3. Dough strengthener: modifies starch and gluten to provide a more stable dough. 4. Firming agent: prevents the collapse during processing. 5. Flour bleachingtreatment 6. Leavenin…
Nutrition
- Calcium sulfate can be used as a calcium supplement in the fortification of bread and flours. It is considered safe for daily consumption up to 8.5 g of anhydrous calcium sulfate per day, this value corresponds to 2500 mg of calcium per day.3
Commercial Production
- Calcium sulfate is commercially produced through two process, depending on the type:2 USG Terra Alba 1. Grinding: high purity gypsum (with 20% water of crystallization) is ground to desired particle size. 2. Air separation: gypsum is heated, at temperatures above 50oC (122oF,) part of the crystallization water is released. At 180 oC (356oF) over 75% of the water is released and compl…
Application
- Calcium sulfate is used mainly in the production of bread, and in the fortification of bread flour, cookies, brownies and breads. When using calcium sulfate some consideration must be taken into account:2,4 1. As a flour bleaching agent: it is mixed with benzoyl peroxide at a ratio of no more than 6:1 by weight. 2. As a nutritional supplement: for calcium enrichment 0.64% of calciu…
Regulations
- Calcium sulfate is considered GRAS by the FDA for its direct addition to food products, in levels that do not exceed good manufacturing practices.2 In the EU, calcium sulfate ( E 516) is considered safe and it’s regulated by the EU Commission No 231/2012.5
References
- Lewis, Richard J. Food additives handbook. Springer Science & Business Media, 1989.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.” Direct Food Substances Affirmed As Generally Recognized As Safe”.Title 21 Code of Federal Regulation, Part. 184. April 2019. Available at https://www...
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). “Calcium sulphate for use as a source of calcium in f…
- Lewis, Richard J. Food additives handbook. Springer Science & Business Media, 1989.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.” Direct Food Substances Affirmed As Generally Recognized As Safe”.Title 21 Code of Federal Regulation, Part. 184. April 2019. Available at https://www...
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). “Calcium sulphate for use as a source of calcium in food supplements‐Scientific opinion of the Scientific Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added t...
- AUSIMIN. “Calcium Sulphate for the Baking Industry”. Technical Specifications. AUSIMIN. Available at: http://ausimin.com.au/PDF/1.%20Ausimin%20Terra%20Alba%201-%20Calcium%20Sulphate%20for%20the%20B...