Sulfuric Acid E513
pH adjuster, processing aid — Primarily synthetic.
Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
CAS: 7664-93-9
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 Sulfuric Acid?
Sulfuric acid is a strong mineral acid used in food processing as an acidity regulator — primarily in the production of glucose syrup, modified starches, and certain fermentation processes. In food manufacturing, it is used in diluted form under controlled conditions, and neutralized after use so minimal residues remain in finished products. JECFA considers food-grade sulfuric acid acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety in 2018. It is approved in the EU and other jurisdictions for use in specific processing applications, not as a direct food additive.
? Did You Know?
Sulfuric Acid occurs naturally in Volcanic emissions (sulfuric acid vapor) and Acid rain (from atmospheric SO2 oxidation). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Sulfuric Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Sulfuric Acid 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)
Used strictly as processing aid and pH regulator. Must be neutralized in final product.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Used primarily in food processing rather than as direct ingredient.
Japan (MHLW)
Limited to processing aid applications.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
While sulfuric acid can form naturally through oxidation of sulfur dioxide in volcanic emissions and acid rain, all commercial sulfuric acid is synthetically produced.
Manufacturing
Produced primarily via the contact process: sulfur is burned to produce sulfur dioxide (SO2), which is then oxidized to sulfur trioxide (SO3) using a vanadium pentoxide catalyst, and finally absorbed in water to form sulfuric acid. Food-grade sulfuric acid must be of high purity.
Applications Beyond Food
Rarely used; pH adjuster in some chemical peels (professional use only).
Manufacturing of various pharmaceuticals, pH adjustment in drug formulations.
Fertilizer production (largest use), petroleum refining, metal processing, battery acid, chemical manufacturing.
Drain cleaners (industrial grade, not food grade), car batteries.