E520 · Aluminum sulfate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E520?
Aluminum sulfate (E520) is used in food as a firming agent and in some baking powders, and as a coagulant aid in a small number of processed foods. Regulatory agencies have progressively restricted aluminum-based additives in food because of concerns about cumulative aluminum exposure, and use is now limited in many countries.
Also appears on labels as: Aluminum sulfate, Aluminium sulfate, Al2(SO4)3, Food grade aluminum sulfate, Aluminum sulfate powder, Aluminum sulfate solution, Aluminium(III) sulfate, Aluminium salt of sulfuric acid, Synthetic aluminum sulfate, E520, E 520, E-520.
What the evidence says
- EFSA has flagged aluminum compounds for potential effects on the nervous system and reproduction at high cumulative exposure, and set a tolerable weekly intake for total dietary aluminum.
- Because aluminum can come from multiple additive sources (baking powders, some cheeses, pickled vegetables), regulators recommend limiting frequent consumption of foods containing aluminum-based additives.
Research behind the verdict
- EFSA Re-evaluation of Aluminium Sulfates: Comprehensive Safety Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings, EFSA Journal (2018). A thorough re-evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority of aluminum sulfates (E520-523) as food additives. The Panel assessed available toxicological data and exposure estimates for aluminum sulfate and related compounds. While aluminum compounds require careful monitoring due to potential accumulation concerns, the study confirmed that current authorized uses remain within acceptable safety margins when used according to approved guidelines. The assessment emphasizes the importance of monitoring total aluminum exposure from all dietary sources.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E520 safe?
Our overall verdict for E520 (Aluminum sulfate) 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 E520 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Aluminum sulfate — 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 E520 and why is it used?
Aluminum sulfate (E520) is used in food as a firming agent and in some baking powders, and as a coagulant aid in a small number of processed foods. Regulatory agencies have progressively restricted aluminum-based additives in food because of concerns about cumulative aluminum exposure, and use is now limited in many countries.
Does E520 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Aluminum sulfate.
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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.