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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
09:31
Calcium Carbonate Formation in the Presence of Biopolymeric Additives
Published on: May 14, 2019
Solubility and bioavailability of stabilized amorphous calcium carbonate
Oren E Meiron1, Elad Bar-David, Eliahu D Aflalo
1Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
Summary
Amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) and ACC with chitosan (ACC-C) show significantly higher solubility and bioavailability than crystalline calcium carbonate (CCC). These findings suggest ACC as a superior dietary calcium source for enhanced absorption and bone health.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Calcium's role in preventing osteoporosis is well-established.
- Recent advancements allow for stable amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) production.
- ACC's bioavailability requires detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the solubility and fractional absorption of ACC, ACC with chitosan (ACC-C), and crystalline calcium carbonate (CCC).
- To evaluate ACC's potential as a highly bioavailable dietary calcium source.
Main Methods:
- Solubility was assessed by dissolving preparations in dilute phosphoric acid.
- Fractional absorption was determined in rats using (45)Ca-labeled preparations.
- Measurements included serum calcium levels, femur calcium absorption, and whole-body retention over 34 hours.
Main Results:
- ACC and ACC-C exhibited higher solubility than CCC.
- Calcium absorption from ACC and ACC-C was up to 40% higher than CCC.
- Femur calcium absorption was 30% higher with ACC and 15% higher with ACC-C compared to CCC.
Conclusions:
- Amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) demonstrates enhanced solubility and bioavailability over crystalline calcium carbonate (CCC).
- ACC, particularly with chitosan (ACC-C), presents a promising, highly bioavailable dietary calcium supplement.
- Further research into ACC for bone health applications is warranted.
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