What is E553a?
E553a is Magnesium silicate, a food additive used as an anti-caking agent. A mineral, so there is no animal, pork or alcohol source.
Also written as: INS 553a, E-553a, E 553a. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E553a vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E553a (Magnesium silicate) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal A mineral, so there is no animal, pork or alcohol source.
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E553a halal?
E553a (Magnesium silicate) is halal. A mineral, so there is no animal, pork or alcohol source.
What is E553a made from?
Mineral salt.
What is E553a used for?
E553a is used as an anti-caking agent, typically in salt, powdered drinks, spices, supplements and tablets.
What should I do if a product contains E553a?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E553a vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E553a (Magnesium silicate) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.