Potassium Alginate E402
natural — Primarily seaweed-derived.
Potassium alginate
CAS: 9005-36-1
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 Alginate?
Potassium alginate is the potassium salt of alginic acid, used as a thickener and stabilizer in similar applications to sodium alginate (E401). It is preferred in low-sodium formulations where sodium content must be minimized. JECFA considers potassium alginate acceptable with no numerical ADI. EFSA reviewed alginates as a group in 2017, confirming safety. Like other alginates, it forms gels with calcium ions and is used in the dairy industry, bakery applications, and as a dietary fiber supplement.
? Did You Know?
Potassium Alginate occurs naturally in Brown seaweed (Phaeophyceae) and Kelp (Laminaria species). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Potassium Alginate is derived from seaweed, a practice that originated centuries ago in East Asian cooking traditions.
Beyond food, Potassium Alginate is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
The potassium salt of alginic acid, extracted from brown seaweed. Similar to sodium alginate but provides potassium instead of sodium, making it suitable for low-sodium diets.
Manufacturing
Extracted from brown seaweed using potassium carbonate solution, or by converting alginic acid with potassium hydroxide. Filtered, purified, and dried.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in face masks and dental impression materials.
Used in pharmaceutical formulations as a thickening agent.
Used in textile printing and paper coatings.