E541 · Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E541?
Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic (E541), is an emulsifier and leavening acid used in processed cheese, baked goods, and some cake mixes to control texture and pH. Like other aluminum-containing additives, its use has been restricted in several jurisdictions because of concerns about cumulative dietary aluminum exposure, and it is banned or limited in the EU for many food categories.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic, Acidic sodium aluminium phosphate, Acidic SALP, SALP (acidic), E541, E 541, E-541, E541(i), Sodium aluminium phosphate (acidic form), Sodium aluminium acid phosphate, Acid sodium aluminium phosphate, Acidic sodium alum phosphate.
What the evidence says
- EFSA has set a tolerable weekly intake for aluminum because high cumulative exposure has been linked in animal studies to potential nervous-system and reproductive effects.
- Frequent consumption of foods with aluminum-based additives can add up across a diet; regulators recommend limiting regular intake.
Frequently asked questions
Is E541 safe?
Our overall verdict for E541 (Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic) 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 E541 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic — 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 E541 and why is it used?
Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic (E541), is an emulsifier and leavening acid used in processed cheese, baked goods, and some cake mixes to control texture and pH. Like other aluminum-containing additives, its use has been restricted in several jurisdictions because of concerns about cumulative dietary aluminum exposure, and it is banned or limited in the EU for many food categories.
Does E541 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium aluminum phosphate, acidic.
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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.