Calcium carbonate is the workhorse calcium source of the food and supplement industry. Inexpensive, calcium-dense, and versatile, it is used for fortification, as a firming and anti-caking agent, and as the primary active in calcium supplements. This guide covers its functions, applications, and bulk sourcing for Canadian manufacturers.
What Is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate (E170, CAS 471-34-1) is an inorganic mineral salt supplied as a fine white powder. Food-grade material titrates 98.0–100.5% purity. It is the most concentrated common calcium source, containing roughly 40% elemental calcium by weight — nearly double that of calcium citrate — which makes it the most cost-effective way to add calcium to a formulation.
Key Functions
Calcium fortification: the primary use — enriching foods and beverages with calcium for nutrition claims (subject to applicable regulations).
Supplement active: the leading calcium form in tablets and chewables thanks to its density and compressibility.
pH regulation: acts as a buffering and neutralizing agent in various processes.
Anti-caking and whitening: functional roles in dry blends and confectionery.
Calcium Carbonate vs. Calcium Citrate
The two most common calcium salts serve different needs. Carbonate is denser in elemental calcium (~40% vs ~21%) and cheaper per gram of calcium, but it is insoluble in water and its absorption benefits from stomach acid — it is best taken with food. Citrate is more soluble and gentler on digestion but bulkier and more expensive. For fortification of solid foods and tablet supplements, carbonate is usually the first choice; for liquid applications or sensitive consumers, citrate is often preferred. LiquidShop carries both.
Typical Applications
Supplements: calcium tablets, chewables, and multivitamin blends.
Confectionery: antacid-style chews and pressed mints.
Formulation Notes
Insolubility: calcium carbonate does not dissolve in water — liquid applications require suspension stabilizers (gums) to prevent settling.
Density: its high density aids tabletting but can cause stratification in dry blends; proper mixing protocols matter.
Effervescence: reacts with acids (citric, malic) to release CO2 — the basis of effervescent formats, but also a stability consideration in acidic matrices.
Specifications at a Glance
E number: E170
CAS number: 471-34-1
Purity: 98.0–100.5%
Elemental calcium: ~40% by weight
Appearance: fine white powder
A full certificate of analysis (COA) is available on request for every lot.
Buying Bulk Calcium Carbonate in Canada
LiquidShop supplies food-grade calcium carbonate in bulk by the kilogram for Canadian food and supplement manufacturers. Sourcing from a Canadian supplier means shorter lead times and simplified logistics. Certificates of analysis are available on request. Contact us to discuss your application and bulk pricing.
