Potassium Sulfates E515
salt substitute component, stabilizer — Primarily synthetic or mineral.
Potassium sulfate (E515i), Potassium hydrogen sulfate/bisulfate (E515ii)
CAS: 7778-80-5 (i), 7646-93-7 (ii)
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 Sulfates?
Potassium sulfates (potassium sulfate and potassium hydrogen sulfate/bisulfate) function as acidity regulators and alternative sources of potassium and sulfate ions in food processing. Potassium sulfate is a natural mineral (arcanite). As food additives (E515), they are used in specific applications such as wine production and some modified starch processes. JECFA considers them acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety. Potassium bisulfate can reduce pH and provides acidity in some applications.
? Did You Know?
Potassium Sulfates occurs naturally in Arcanite mineral (rare) and Volcanic fumaroles. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Potassium Sulfates 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, Potassium Sulfates 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)
Permitted as acidity regulator in specific food categories.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Limited use in food processing.
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
Potassium sulfate occurs in nature as the rare mineral arcanite and in volcanic areas, but commercial production is synthetic.
Manufacturing
E515i (potassium sulfate) is produced by reacting potassium chloride with sulfuric acid (Mannheim process) or as a byproduct of nitric acid production. E515ii (potassium bisulfate) is made by reacting potassium chloride or hydroxide with excess sulfuric acid.
Applications Beyond Food
Rarely used.
Rarely used in pharmaceuticals.
Fertilizers (major use - chloride-free potassium source), alum production, glass manufacturing.
Wine making (acidity regulator), home brewing.