Potassium Chloride E508
stabilizer, thickener, salt substitute — Primarily synthetic or mineral.
Potassium chloride (KCl)
CAS: 7447-40-7
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?
Potassium Chloride occurs naturally in Sylvite mineral deposits and Sylvinite ore (mixed KCl and NaCl). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Potassium Chloride 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 Chloride 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 gelling agent and salt substitute in various food categories.
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Widely used as reduced-sodium salt substitute and labeled as such.
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 chloride occurs naturally in the mineral sylvite and in underground salt deposits. It is also an essential electrolyte in all living organisms. Commercial production comes from mining potash deposits or extraction from sea water.
Manufacturing
Extracted from underground potash deposits (mined as sylvinite ore and separated from sodium chloride) or produced by the reaction of potassium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid. Can also be recovered from sea water through evaporation and crystallization processes.
Applications Beyond Food
Rarely used.
Electrolyte replenisher, treatment for hypokalemia (low potassium), lethal injection component.
Fertilizers (major use), oil well drilling fluids, chemical manufacturing.
Water softener salt (alternative to sodium chloride).