# Aluminum Caprylate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 6028-57-5
**Category:** emulsifier
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Aluminum caprylate is a salt compound formed from aluminum and caprylic acid, functioning primarily as an anticaking agent and emulsifier in food formulations. It helps prevent clumping in powdered products and stabilizes oil-water mixtures in various food applications.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Aluminum Caprylate?

Aluminum caprylate (CAS Number: 6028-57-7) is an aluminum salt derived from caprylic acid, a naturally occurring medium-chain fatty acid. The compound forms when aluminum reacts with caprylic acid, creating an emulsifying agent with hydrophobic properties. It appears as a white to off-white powder and is sparingly soluble in water but compatible with oils and fats.

## Common Uses

Aluminum caprylate is employed in food manufacturing primarily as an anticaking agent in powdered and granulated products, where it reduces moisture absorption and prevents agglomeration. It functions as a formulation aid in seasoning blends, salt products, and powdered flavor compounds. As an emulsifier, it helps stabilize oil-water interfaces in certain food systems, improving texture and shelf-life. The compound is also used in cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications due to its emulsifying properties.

## Safety Assessment

The FDA has not designated aluminum caprylate as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). However, no adverse events have been reported to the FDA regarding this additive, and no product recalls have been linked to its use. The safety profile reflects limited commercial use rather than identified hazards.

Aluminum compounds require careful consideration due to aluminum's bioaccumulation potential. However, the amount of aluminum absorbed from food additives is typically minimal, as only a small fraction of ingested aluminum is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The use level in foods is generally low, further limiting exposure.

Caprylic acid itself is recognized as safe and occurs naturally in coconut oil and palm oil. When bound to aluminum as a salt, the resulting compound's bioavailability differs from both free aluminum and caprylic acid individually.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, aluminum caprylate is not listed as a GRAS substance, limiting its use in conventional foods without specific FDA authorization. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not established a comprehensive safety assessment for this specific compound.

Some jurisdictions permit its use in food applications with specific restrictions on usage levels and food categories. Regulatory acceptance varies internationally, with some countries allowing it in specific food categories while others restrict or prohibit its use. Manufacturers should verify approval status in their target markets before use.

## Key Studies

Limited peer-reviewed research exists specifically addressing aluminum caprylate's safety in food applications. Most available data derives from general aluminum salt toxicology and caprylic acid safety studies rather than combination studies of this specific compound.

Research on caprylic acid demonstrates antimicrobial properties and generally favorable safety profiles at food-relevant concentrations. Studies on aluminum absorption from food additives indicate that aluminum compounds contribute minimally to total dietary aluminum exposure when used at typical food levels.

The lack of reported adverse events and recalls despite historical use suggests an acceptable safety margin under current usage conditions, though comprehensive formal safety assessments would provide additional confidence. Further research specifically evaluating this additive's safety at proposed use levels would strengthen the evidence base for regulatory decision-making.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Aluminum Caprylate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/aluminum-caprylate. Accessed 2026-05-19.