E501(II) · Potassium Bicarbonate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E501(II)?
Potassium bicarbonate is a mineral-derived compound that functions as a leavening agent, similar to sodium bicarbonate. It is often used as a lower-sodium substitute for baking soda in reduced-sodium baked goods, since it releases carbon dioxide for leavening without adding sodium. It is also used as an acidity regulator.
Also appears on labels as: Potassium bicarbonate, E501(ii), E 501(ii), E-501(ii), INS 501(ii), Potassium hydrogencarbonate, Potassium hydrogen carbonate, KHCO3, Carbonic acid monopotassium salt, Monopotassium carbonate, Potassium acid carbonate, Bicarbonate of potash.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- High potassium intake can be a concern for people with kidney disease or those taking medications (e.g. certain blood pressure drugs) that raise blood potassium levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E501(II) safe?
Our overall verdict for E501(II) (Potassium Bicarbonate) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E501(II) vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Potassium Bicarbonate — 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 E501(II) and why is it used?
Potassium bicarbonate is a mineral-derived compound that functions as a leavening agent, similar to sodium bicarbonate. It is often used as a lower-sodium substitute for baking soda in reduced-sodium baked goods, since it releases carbon dioxide for leavening without adding sodium. It is also used as an acidity regulator.
Does E501(II) contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Potassium Bicarbonate.
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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.