acidity regulator INS 514

Sodium Sulfates E514

diluent, carrier — Primarily synthetic or mineral.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sodium sulfate (E514i), Sodium hydrogen sulfate/bisulfate (E514ii)

CAS: 7757-82-6 (i), 7681-38-1 (ii)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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?

Sodium Sulfates occurs naturally in Mirabilite mineral (sodium sulfate decahydrate) and Thenardite mineral (anhydrous sodium sulfate). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Sodium 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, Sodium 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)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted as acidity regulator and carrier in specific food categories.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Limited use in food processing.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (acceptable for use)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified (no safety concern at current use levels)

Natural Occurrence

Sodium sulfate occurs naturally as the mineral mirabilite (Glauber's salt). However, most commercial production is synthetic, often as a byproduct of chemical manufacturing.

Mirabilite mineral (sodium sulfate decahydrate)Thenardite mineral (anhydrous sodium sulfate)Salt lakes and mineral springs

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis or mining

Produced by the reaction of sodium chloride with sulfuric acid (Mannheim process), or as a byproduct of hydrochloric acid production and other chemical processes. Can also be extracted from natural mineral deposits. E514ii (sodium bisulfate) is made by partial neutralization of sulfuric acid with sodium carbonate or hydroxide.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Viscosity regulator, bulking agent.

Medical

Laxative (Glauber's salt), diluent in tablets.

Industrial

Kraft pulping in paper industry, detergents, glass manufacturing, textile dyeing.

Household

Some cleaning products, hot tub pH reducers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sodium Sulfates (E514)?

Sodium Sulfates (E514) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is diluent, carrier and synthetic or mineral. Sodium sulfate occurs naturally as the mineral mirabilite (Glauber's salt). However, most commercial production is synthetic, often as a byproduct of chemical manufacturing.

Where is Sodium Sulfates found naturally?

Sodium Sulfates is naturally found in Mirabilite mineral (sodium sulfate decahydrate), Thenardite mineral (anhydrous sodium sulfate), Salt lakes and mineral springs. Sodium sulfate occurs naturally as the mineral mirabilite (Glauber's salt). However, most commercial production is synthetic, often as a byproduct of chemical manufacturing.

What is the ADI for Sodium Sulfates?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sodium Sulfates is not specified (acceptable for use) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Sodium Sulfates?

Sodium Sulfates is used in various food categories including Sauces. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.

Is Sodium Sulfates the same as Glauber's salt (E514i decahydrate)?

Yes, Sodium Sulfates is also known as Glauber's salt (E514i decahydrate), Salt cake (E514i anhydrous), Sodium bisulfate (E514ii). These are different names for the same substance.