FlavScents AInsights Entry: Magnesium Carbonate Basic (CAS: 39409-82-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Magnesium Carbonate Basic
• IUPAC Name: Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide
• CAS Number: 39409-82-0
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: Not applicable
• Molecular Formula: Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·4H2O
• Molecular Weight: 467.6 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Magnesium carbonate basic is an inorganic compound with carbonate and hydroxide groups. It is primarily used for its buffering and neutralizing properties rather than any direct odor impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Magnesium carbonate basic itself does not have a significant odor or flavor profile. It is typically used in formulations for its functional properties rather than sensory contributions. Its role is more about modifying the texture or stability of a product rather than imparting any specific sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Magnesium carbonate basic is not typically found in nature in its pure form but can be derived from natural mineral sources such as dolomite and magnesite. It is often produced industrially through the reaction of magnesium salts with sodium carbonate. This compound does not contribute to the "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designation as it is primarily used for its chemical properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Magnesium carbonate basic is used in flavor systems primarily as an acidity regulator and anti-caking agent. It helps maintain the stability and texture of powdered flavorings. Typical use levels in food products are not well-documented, but it is generally used at low concentrations, often below 100 ppm, to avoid any potential impact on flavor.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, magnesium carbonate basic is used as a carrier or filler rather than for its scent. It can help stabilize volatile compounds and improve the texture of powdered fragrance products. Its contribution is more functional, providing bulk and aiding in the dispersion of fragrance materials.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a food additive.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 as a food additive.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China for use in food products, with specific regulations varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in countries like Brazil under MERCOSUR regulations, but specific approvals may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Considered safe for consumption at typical use levels. No specific ADI or MSDI established, but generally recognized as safe.
• Dermal Exposure: Low risk of irritation or sensitization; not typically used in direct skin applications.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be managed to avoid dust inhalation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Magnesium carbonate basic is valued for its buffering capacity and ability to stabilize formulations. It synergizes well with other stabilizers and can prevent caking in powdered products. A common pitfall is overuse, which can lead to undesirable textural changes. It is often under-utilized in applications where pH stability is critical.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on magnesium carbonate basic is well-established for its functional uses, though sensory data is limited due to its lack of direct flavor or fragrance impact. Regulatory information is comprehensive, but specific use levels in formulations are often industry-typical rather than explicitly documented.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-09-17 14:29:17 GMT (p2)