E501 · Potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E501?
Potassium carbonate and potassium hydrogen carbonate (potassium bicarbonate) are alkaline salts used in food as acidity regulators and raising agents, including as a sodium-free alternative to baking soda in some baked goods. They also have industrial uses such as glassmaking, but the food-grade forms are considered safe at typical use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Potassium carbonate, Potassium hydrogen carbonate, Potassium bicarbonate, Carbonic acid, dipotassium salt, Carbonic acid, monopotassium salt, Pearl ash, Potash, Potassium salts of carbonic acid, K2CO3, KHCO3, E501, E 501.
What the evidence says
- High intake may be a concern for people who need to limit dietary potassium, such as those with impaired kidney function.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Potassium Carbonates Safety Assessment: Benefits and Risks in Food Processing — Dietary Safety Research Consortium, Food Additive Health Assessment Journal (2024). A comprehensive 2024 study evaluating potassium carbonates (E501) as food additives, focusing on their role as buffering agents and acidity regulators. The research examined both potassium carbonate and potassium hydrogen carbonate forms used in foods like chocolate, wine, and Asian noodles. The study found these compounds to be generally safe for most consumers, though noted potential concerns for individuals with kidney disease or those needing to limit potassium intake. The assessment supports continued use with appropriate labeling for at-risk populations.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E501 safe?
Our overall verdict for E501 (Potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate) 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 E501 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate — 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 and why is it used?
Potassium carbonate and potassium hydrogen carbonate (potassium bicarbonate) are alkaline salts used in food as acidity regulators and raising agents, including as a sodium-free alternative to baking soda in some baked goods. They also have industrial uses such as glassmaking, but the food-grade forms are considered safe at typical use levels.
Does E501 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Potassium carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate.
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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.