E261 · Potassium acetate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E261?
Potassium acetate (E261) is a salt of acetic acid used in food as an acidity regulator and preservative, and outside food it is well known as a de-icing agent. In the diet it contributes a source of potassium and acts similarly to other acetate salts in helping control pH in processed foods. It is used sparingly and is considered safe at typical food-additive levels.
Also appears on labels as: Potassium acetate, Acetic acid potassium salt, K-acetate, Food grade potassium acetate, E261, E 261, E-261, INS 261, Potassium diacetate, Potassium hydrogen acetate, Additivo alimentare E261, Additif alimentaire E261.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- People on potassium-restricted diets (e.g. some kidney disease patients) should be mindful of cumulative potassium intake from additives like this one.
Frequently asked questions
Is E261 safe?
Our overall verdict for E261 (Potassium acetate) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E261 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Potassium acetate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E261 and why is it used?
Potassium acetate (E261) is a salt of acetic acid used in food as an acidity regulator and preservative, and outside food it is well known as a de-icing agent. In the diet it contributes a source of potassium and acts similarly to other acetate salts in helping control pH in processed foods. It is used sparingly and is considered safe at typical food-additive levels.
Does E261 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Potassium acetate.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.