Hydrochloric Acid E507
pH adjuster, acidifying agent — Primarily synthetic.
Hydrogen chloride (HCl)
CAS: 7647-01-0
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.
? Did You Know?
Hydrochloric Acid occurs naturally in Human stomach acid (gastric acid is 0.5% HCl) and Volcanic gases. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Hydrochloric 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, Hydrochloric 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 pH regulator; must be neutralized in final product. No residual acid remains free.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Used for pH adjustment 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
Hydrochloric acid is naturally produced in the human stomach as gastric acid, essential for digestion. It also occurs in volcanic emissions and some natural salt formations, but industrial production is entirely synthetic.
Manufacturing
Produced by dissolving hydrogen chloride gas (HCl) in water. The hydrogen chloride gas is typically generated as a byproduct of industrial chlorination reactions or by directly reacting hydrogen with chlorine gas. Food-grade hydrochloric acid must be of high purity.
Applications Beyond Food
Rarely used; pH adjuster in some chemical peels (professional use).
Production of various pharmaceuticals, pH adjustment in formulations.
Steel pickling, ore processing, chemical manufacturing, pH control in water treatment.
Muriatic acid for cleaning masonry, removing rust (industrial grade, not food grade).