Aluminium stearate

Aluminium stearate is a metallic stearate, a salt formed from aluminium and stearic acid. Stearic acid is a fatty acid commonly found in animal and vegetable fats and oils. Aluminium stearate is typically produced by reacting aluminium salts with stearic acid or its salts.

It is used as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods, preventing them from clumping. It can also function as a stabiliser in certain food products. Aluminium stearate is found in a small number of UK packaged foods, most commonly in Greek-style yogurts.

Aluminium stearate is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. EFSA has evaluated aluminium stearate and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). While aluminium compounds are widely present in the environment and food, ongoing scientific evaluation considers potential health impacts. Some studies have explored links between aluminium exposure and neurological conditions, but the evidence is not conclusive, and regulatory bodies continue to monitor scientific findings.