Magnesium Stearate (E 470b)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Magnesium stearate (E 470b) is a fat-based powder used to keep tablets and some foods from sticking to equipment.

What the evidence review says

Magnesium stearate is a fat-based powder used to keep tablets and some foods from sticking to equipment. We found no notable concern for it at normal food uses.

no notable concern

• Source: EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), EFSA J, 2018 · doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5180

Policy note: FDA has proposed a rule (not final) that would require companies to notify FDA before using a food substance on the basis that it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Comments close December 9, 2026. Source: 91 FR 51834, published August 11, 2026, Docket FDA-2025-N-3262 (federalregister.gov, checked 2026-10-19).

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This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.