Flo-Gard® SP Silica (Food-Grade Anti-Caking & Flow Agent) Product Specification

I. Product Overview

Flo-Gard® SP is a synthetic silica from PPG’s silica product line, specifically engineered to optimize the free-flow properties of powdered food ingredients. It also serves as a carrier for flavor substances. With its uniform particle shape and size, the product enables easy and thorough mixing while effectively reducing dust generation—delivering a versatile, cost-effective flow regulation solution. Compared to other similar flow agents, it achieves equivalent anti-caking efficiency at lower addition levels, providing food manufacturers with an economically efficient option.

II.Core Characteristics & Technical Specifications
(A) Basic Characteristics
•Product Type: Unique precipitated silica with amorphous structure
•Physical Form: Highly absorbent, pure white, free-flowing powder
•Sensory Properties: Odorless and tasteless, no impact on food flavor or texture
•Chemical Properties: Neutral pH (6.9), stable chemical nature, excellent compatibility with various food ingredients
•Particle Size: Typical median particle size of 36 microns (measured by laser diffraction)
(B) Key Technical Parameters

III. Certifications & Compliance Requirements
Flo-Gard® SP has obtained multiple authoritative certifications and meets food-grade usage standards:
3.U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 21 CFR Compliance:
◦Per 21 CFR 172.480: Maximum addition level not to exceed 2% by weight of the food when used as an anti-caking agent
◦Per 21 CFR 133.146 (for shredded cheeses): Maximum addition level not to exceed 2% by weight of the food
◦Per 21 CFR 160.105 & 160.180 (for dried eggs and dried egg yolks): Maximum addition level not to exceed 1% by weight of the finished food
◦Per 21 CFR 172.230 (for flavoring substances): Flo-Gard® SP content in dry flavorings added to final food shall not exceed 2% by weight of the final food
◦No weight percentage limit when used as a carrier for flavor substances added to other foods
4.Complies with standards for food-grade silica in the Food Chemical Codex
5.Kosher certified, approved for Passover and year-round use
IV. Recommended Applications
The product is suitable for various powdered foods and food ingredients, including but not limited to:
•Granulated salt
•Chili powder
•Paprika and other spices
•Guar gum
•Seasoning blends
•Powdered drink mixes
V. Core Product Advantages
6.Efficient Mixing & Low Dust Emission: Fine and uniform particles allow direct metered addition into process streams, mixers, or spray dryers without pre-blending. Validated by PPG’s proprietary test methods, it offers superior dust control compared to similar products—generating less dust than sodium aluminosilicate and other competitors at equivalent addition levels in applications such as spices.
7.High Absorbency & Cost Optimization: Exceptional moisture absorption capacity delivers excellent anti-caking performance at low addition levels. Compared to sodium aluminosilicate and other competitors, it significantly reduces the required dosage of flow agents, lowering production costs. Its broad applicability also minimizes the variety of flow regulation additives needed in food manufacturers’ inventory.
VI. Packaging Specifications

(A) Standard Packaging

(B) Custom Packaging Options
For custom package sizes or alternative shipping methods (FIBC bulk, full truckload, or railcar shipping), contact silica product customer service or sales representatives.
VII. Storage Requirements
To ensure product performance and integrity, follow these storage guidelines:
8.Store in a dry, clean environment, away from contact with other substances
9.Due to silica’s moisture-absorbing nature, re-test the moisture content of products stored for more than one year from the production date
10.Stretch-wrapped palletized units or bags have no shelf life limit under the above storage conditions
11.Do not stack pallets to prevent package damage or product caking from pressure
VIII. Safety & Health Guidelines
12.Prior to using or handling this product, personnel must carefully read and understand the information and precautions on the product label, as well as the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and other product safety documents
13.Communicate the health hazards and safety information of this product to employees or customers as appropriate
14.Improper use of this product may cause hazards—strictly follow the recommended addition levels and usage instructions
15.As a potentially hazardous substance, keep the product out of reach of children
IX. Sample & Service Support
16.Sample Request: Contact the customer service department to request product samples
17.Customer Service & Technical Support:
◦U.S. Region: Customer Service +1-800-243-6745; Technical Service +1-800-764-7369
◦European Region: Customer Service +31-596-676710; Technical Service +1-724-325-5369
18.Additional Resources: Visit www.ppgsilica.com to access the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and detailed product specifications
19.Sales Information: Distributed by Harwick Standard Distribution Corporation. Phone: (330) 798-9300; Website: harwickstandard.com

X. Copyright Notice
©2011 PPG Industries, Inc. All rights reserved. Flo-Gard® is a trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc., Registration No. 30061111. The statements and methods contained herein are based on the best information and practices currently known to PPG, but do not constitute a warranty or guarantee of product performance, results of use, or completeness of information. No license or recommendation for use of any third-party patents, copyrights, or other intellectual property is implied herein.
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