The Claim
In vitro digestion of tofu coagulated with magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) produces a significantly higher release of intestinal peptides (5.89 mg/mL) and total amino acids (123.06 μmol/mL) than tofu coagulated with calcium sulfate (CaSO₄) (84.94 μmol/mL), due to a gel structure that enhances protein breakdown under simulated gastrointestinal conditions.
What the research says
Roughly balanced
Support and challenge are close. The picture may shift as more studies come in.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Tofu made with magnesium chloride releases more peptides and amino acids during simulated digestion than tofu made with calcium sulfate, because its gel structure breaks down protein more completely.
See the scientific wording
In vitro digestion of tofu coagulated with magnesium chloride (MgCl2) results in significantly higher release of intestinal peptides (5.89 mg/mL) and total amino acids (123.06 μmol/mL) compared to tofu coagulated with calcium sulfate (CaSO4) (84.94 μmol/mL), indicating that MgCl2 produces a gel structure that enhances protein breakdown under simulated gastrointestinal conditions.
When tofu is made with magnesium chloride, the protein network forms with more gaps and less density, letting digestive enzymes get in easily and break the protein into smaller pieces and amino acids. When tofu is made with calcium sulfate, the protein network is tighter and blocks enzymes from reaching the protein, so less gets broken down.
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Compound Salt-Based Coagulants for Tofu Gel Production: Balancing Quality and Protein Digestibility
Tofu made with magnesium chloride breaks down more easily in a simulated stomach and intestine test, releasing more amino acids than tofu made with calcium sulfate — meaning your body can absorb more protein from it.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.