Tag: E501

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lists potassium carbonate as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use as a direct food ingredient when used according to good manufacturing practices. However, this safety is specific to a food-grade version and small, controlled amounts, not the raw chemical.

Extensive research and a century of use have shown that potassium carbonate, in the small, regulated amounts used in food, poses no significant risk to human health. Often known as potash, this food additive serves important functions, but a clear understanding of its different grades and applications is key to answering the question: is potassium carbonate healthy for you?.

Potassium carbonate (E501) has been used in food production for over 100 years and is recognized as safe by the FDA when used properly. So, is potassium carbonate good or bad for you? The answer depends entirely on the context and concentration, as this substance exists in safe, regulated forms and hazardous, concentrated forms.