E326 · Potassium lactate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E326?
Potassium lactate is the potassium salt of lactic acid, used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in meats, dairy, and bakery products to extend shelf life and reduce bacterial growth. It is also used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and pH stabilizer, and in medical solutions for treating acidosis. It is considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Also appears on labels as: Potassium lactate, Lactic acid potassium salt, K-lactate, Food grade potassium lactate, E326, E 326, E-326, INS 326, Potassium D-lactate, Potassium L-lactate, Additivo alimentare E326, Additif alimentaire E326.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels.
- People with kidney conditions that impair potassium excretion should monitor intake of potassium-containing additives.
Frequently asked questions
Is E326 safe?
Our overall verdict for E326 (Potassium lactate) 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 E326 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Potassium lactate — 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 E326 and why is it used?
Potassium lactate is the potassium salt of lactic acid, used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in meats, dairy, and bakery products to extend shelf life and reduce bacterial growth. It is also used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and pH stabilizer, and in medical solutions for treating acidosis. It is considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Does E326 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Potassium lactate.
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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.