Calcium inosinate is a calcium salt of the nucleoside inosine. Under the E number E633, it is a food additive used as a flavor enhancer. It is a food additive and flavor enhancer often used in combination with monosodium glutamate (MSG) to enhance the umami taste of foods. It is a salt of inosinic acid (inosinate), which is a naturally occurring nucleotide found in meat, fish, and other protein-rich foods.
alcium inosinate is typically used in processed foods, snacks, canned foods, soups, and sauces. It is part of a group of additives known as “umami” enhancers, along with other substances like monosodium glutamate (MSG) and disodium guanylate. These additives work by stimulating the umami receptors on our taste buds, contributing to the savory flavor of the food.
Properties
- Chemical formula: C10H11CaN4O8P
- Molar mass: 386.270 g·mol−1
- Solubility in water: sparingly
- Appearance: It typically appears as a white or off-white crystalline powder.
- Solubility: It is slightly soluble in water but is more soluble in an acidic solution.
- Taste: It has a mild, umami flavor and is used to enhance the savory taste of food.
- Stability: It is stable under normal storage conditions, especially when kept away from moisture and light.
- Odor: It generally has no strong odor but may possess a faintly savory aroma due to its association with the flavor-enhancing properties of inosine.
Natural Sources
Calcium inosinate is naturally present in foods rich in nucleotides, especially in meats, fish, and some vegetables. It is found in large amounts in meat products like pork, chicken, and beef, as well as seafood such as fish and shellfish. It is also present in the tissues of some mushrooms and fermented foods, contributing to their umami taste.
Industrial Production
Calcium inosinate is produced commercially by extracting it from natural sources or through fermentation processes. It can also be synthesized through the reaction of inosine monophosphate with calcium salts.
Use in Food Industry
Calcium inosinate is used as a food additive (E633) to enhance the umami flavor in processed foods such as snacks, soups, sauces, and seasonings. It is often found in combination with other flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG) to improve taste profiles.
Applications
- Flavor Enhancement: It is primarily used as a flavor enhancer in processed food products, improving the overall taste and umami profile.
- Synergistic Effect: It works well with other flavor enhancers like MSG, boosting the taste of savory foods.
- Culinary Uses: In addition to its role in the food industry, it can be used in gourmet cooking to enhance the savory notes in dishes.
Safety and Regulations
Calcium inosinate is considered safe for consumption by regulatory authorities like the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) when used within recommended limits. However, as with all food additives, overconsumption may lead to health concerns, particularly for those with sensitivities to MSG or related compounds.
