Potassium Acetate E261
buffer — Primarily synthetic.
Potassium ethanoate
CAS: 127-08-2
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Potassium Acetate?
Potassium acetate is the potassium salt of acetic acid, used as an acidity regulator and preservative in packaged meats, cheeses, and condiments. It provides antimicrobial properties similar to acetic acid while contributing potassium rather than sodium — relevant for sodium-reduced formulations. JECFA considers acetate salts acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA reviewed the acetates group in 2014, confirming safety. Potassium acetate is also used as a de-icing agent for aircraft and roads, but food-grade specifications differ from technical grade.
? Did You Know?
Beyond food, Potassium Acetate is also used in medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Potassium Acetate has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
None
United States (FDA)
Generally recognized as safe
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Produced by neutralizing acetic acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in dialysis solutions and as a potassium supplement
De-icing agent, buffering agent in chemical processes