Calcium Carbonate (Chalk) - thickener, colorant

INCI Name

Calcium Carbonate

Functions

2 Roles

Sustainability

8/10

What It Does

Thickeners are the architects of product texture. They increase viscosity and modify flow characteristics, transforming thin liquids into luxurious gels, rich creams, or satisfying serums. The right thickener can elevate a product from ordinary to extraordinary.

Controls product consistency

Improves application experience

Stabilizes suspensions and emulsions

Creates desired texture profiles

Technical Properties

pH Range

8.0-10.0

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Known Interactions

IRONUse CautionAbsorption Competition

Calcium inhibits both heme and non-heme iron absorption by 50-60% when taken together. These minerals compete for the same absorption pathways. Separate by at least 2 hours or formulate for different serving times.

FERROUS SULFATEUse CautionAbsorption Competition

Calcium Carbonate inhibits Ferrous Sulfate absorption by up to 60%. Separate by 2+ hours or use iron bisglycinate (chelated form less affected by calcium).

FERROUS FUMARATEUse CautionAbsorption Competition

Calcium inhibits iron absorption regardless of iron salt form. Separate calcium and iron doses by at least 2 hours.

ZINCNoteAbsorption Competition

High-dose Calcium (>600mg) can reduce Zinc absorption by 30-50%. Consider separating doses or using chelated zinc (zinc bisglycinate) for better absorption.

MAGNESIUMNoteAbsorption Competition

Calcium and Magnesium compete for absorption at high doses. While they can be combined at moderate levels, high-dose formulations should separate them or use chelated forms.

CITRIC ACIDNotePrecipitation

High Calcium + Citric Acid can form calcium citrate precipitate in beverages, causing cloudiness or sedimentation. Manageable with proper formulation (sequestrants, pH control), but test stability.

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