INCI Name
Calcium Chloride
Functions
1 Roles
Sustainability
7/10
Category
general
What It Does
Calcium Chloride is an inorganic ionic salt composed of calcium and chloride ions, widely used in food and beverage applications as a mineral additive. In brewing contexts, it is specifically valued for its ability to lower mash and wort pH, accentuate hop bitterness and aroma perception, and replicate the mineral profiles of historically hop-forward brewing water sources such as Burton-on-Trent. Formulators select the dihydrate flake form for its ease of dissolution, precise dosing, and food-grade purity, making it a reliable tool for water chemistry adjustment without introducing unwanted flavor contributions at recommended usage levels.
Technical Properties
pH Range
4.5-8.5
Optimal working range
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Foaming Ability
none
Lather generation
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
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.
High-dose Calcium (>600mg) can reduce Zinc absorption by 30-50%. Consider separating doses or using chelated zinc (zinc bisglycinate) for better absorption.
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.
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.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
mineral
Feedstock
Derived primarily from limestone (calcium carbonate) via reaction with hydrochloric acid, or recovered as a byproduct of the Solvay process for soda ash production
Available Variants
6 forms available
Dihydrate flake (food-grade)
Food Grade Dihydrate
Food-grade anhydrous granular
Food-grade powder
Standard
Food-grade anhydrous calcium chloride, 94–97% purity
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Calcium Chloride
- Common Name
- Calcium Chloride
- Category
- general