[{"from": "human", "value": "Could you give me a brief overview of this molecule? [C][C][Branch1][=Branch1][C][=Branch1][C][=O][O-1][O].[C][C][Branch1][=Branch1][C][=Branch1][C][=O][O-1][O].[Ca+2]"}, {"from": "gpt", "value": "The molecule is a salt that consists of two lactate anions for each calcium cation (Ca2+). It is prepared commercially by the neutralization of lactic acid with calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide. Approved by the FDA as a direct food substance affirmed as generally recognized as safe, calcium lactate is used as a firming agent, flavoring agent, leavening agent, stabilizer, and thickener. Calcium lactate is also found in daily dietary supplements as a source of calcium. It is also available in various hydrate forms, where calcium lactate pentahydrate is the most common."}]