Origin
E 385 is produced exclusively synthetically. Calcium-Dinatrium-EDTA is manufactured in a chemical process from formaldehyde and Prussian blue with ethylenediamine, followed by alkaline hydrolysis. Its antioxidative effect is due to its ability to bind metal ions and form solid complexes with them (hence the term complexing agent). This prevents color changes in vegetables on one hand, and bacteria can no longer attach themselves to the ions, thus giving the substance a slight preservative effect.
Usage
E 385 may only be used for very specific foods. Artichokes, legumes as well as mushrooms in cans, sauces, frozen crustaceans and crustaceans in tins. The ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) value for Calcium-Dinatrium-EDTA is at 2.5 mg/kg body weight.
Risks
E 385 is a controversial substance as it, among other things, is not particularly environmentally friendly: it cannot be broken down easily and thus accumulates in the environment. Due to its metal-binding effect, it can dissolve heavy metals in the environment and make them bioavailable.