Abstract: This invention relates to sauces and salad dressings containing a soluble calcium source comprising specific molar ratios of calcium, citrate and malate or calcium acetate. The calcium composition is more soluble in these products than calcium citrate or calcium carbonate. The calcium citrate malate consists of a metastable complex salt. A calcium fortified vinegar is also disclosed.

Abstract: A metastable complex of calcium, citrate and malate is disclosed. This material is highly bioavailable, and is soluble in both neutral and acid solutions. The salt is prepared by the reaction of calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide or calcium oxide with citric and malic acids in aqueous solution. The reaction mixture is dried at a temperature of less than 100.degree. C., and the resultant solid is a metastable solid. The solid can be ground to reduce the particle size for easier tabletting or adding to foods and beverages. Preferred salts are neutral and acidic salts which can be expressed by molar ratios.