Calcium tartrate

MineralCalciumBest with a meal

What is it

Calcium tartrate is a calcium salt of tartaric acid. It is widely used as a food additive (E354) for acidity regulation and as a stabilizer in wine and baking. It is uncommon as a primary calcium supplement source.

How it works

Like other calcium salts, calcium tartrate dissociates in the digestive tract to release calcium ions, which are absorbed in the small intestine. Bioavailability of calcium from this salt has not been well compared with mainstream forms like citrate or carbonate. In wine production, calcium tartrate naturally precipitates from cold-stored wines and can be removed as 'wine diamonds.' Its use as a food additive is generally regarded as safe.

Dosage

There is no specific dose for calcium tartrate. The RDA for total calcium is 1,000 to 1,200 mg per day in adults from all sources.

When and how to take it

Calcium absorption is best in doses of 500 mg or less, taken with food. Avoid taking with iron or thyroid medication.

1 commercial form

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Calcium tartrate

More common as a food additive than as a primary calcium supplement.

Soluble in acidic conditions; bioavailability not well characterized vs. citrate or carbonate.

Safety

Generally regarded as safe at food and trace supplement amounts. Calcium salts in general can cause constipation, gas, and rare hypercalcemia at high doses.

Who should be cautious

Avoid high calcium supplementation in calcium oxalate kidney stones, hypercalcemia, and severe kidney disease without supervision.

Interactions

Calcium reduces absorption of tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, bisphosphonates, levothyroxine, and iron supplements. Separate timing by 2 to 4 hours.

Food sources

Yogurt (plain, low-fat)

Amount
1 cup
%DV
37%

Milk

Amount
1 cup
%DV
23%

Frequently asked questions

Is calcium tartrate a good calcium source?⌄

Calcium citrate or carbonate have better-defined absorption data. Calcium tartrate is more common as a food additive.

Is it safe?⌄

Yes, at food and trace supplement levels. Like all calcium sources, very high doses are not recommended without medical advice.

References

Calcium tartrate on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Calcium tartrate (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.