Calcium Acetate

Definition

Calcium acetate is a chemical compound often used as a food additive to stabilize and add nutritional value to packaged foods.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Calcium acetate (Ca(CH3COO)2) is the calcium salt of acetic acid. It functions as a phosphate binder by reacting with dietary phosphate to form insoluble calcium phosphate, which is excreted from the body, thereby reducing phosphate absorption and helping to control hyperphosphatemia in patients with kidney disease.

Benefits

• Helps manage phosphate levels in individuals with chronic kidney disease.
• Contributes calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

Examples

• Processed foods like breads and baked goods.
• Used as a stabilizer in some canned vegetables and cheese products.

Additional Information

• knownIssues: Consuming excessive amounts can lead to high calcium levels in the blood, potentially causing vascular calcification or soft tissue calcification.

Related Terms

• Calcium carbonate
• Phosphate binders
• Acetic acid

References

• Calcium Acetate: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
• Calcium Acetate in Hyperphosphatemia Treatment: Medical Use and Chemistry