acidity regulator INS 515

Potassium Sulfates E515

salt substitute component, stabilizer — Primarily synthetic or mineral.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Potassium sulfate (E515i), Potassium hydrogen sulfate/bisulfate (E515ii)

CAS: 7778-80-5 (i), 7646-93-7 (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?

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)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted as acidity regulator 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

Potassium sulfate occurs in nature as the rare mineral arcanite and in volcanic areas, but commercial production is synthetic.

Arcanite mineral (rare)Volcanic fumarolesSome mineral springs

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

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

Cosmetics

Rarely used.

Medical

Rarely used in pharmaceuticals.

Industrial

Fertilizers (major use - chloride-free potassium source), alum production, glass manufacturing.

Household

Wine making (acidity regulator), home brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Potassium Sulfates (E515)?

Potassium Sulfates (E515) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is salt substitute component, stabilizer and synthetic or mineral. Potassium sulfate occurs in nature as the rare mineral arcanite and in volcanic areas, but commercial production is synthetic.

Where is Potassium Sulfates found naturally?

Potassium Sulfates is naturally found in Arcanite mineral (rare), Volcanic fumaroles, Some mineral springs. Potassium sulfate occurs in nature as the rare mineral arcanite and in volcanic areas, but commercial production is synthetic.

What is the ADI for Potassium Sulfates?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Potassium 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 Potassium Sulfates?

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

Is Potassium Sulfates the same as Arcanite (mineral form of E515i)?

Yes, Potassium Sulfates is also known as Arcanite (mineral form of E515i), Potassium bisulfate (E515ii), Potash of sulfur. These are different names for the same substance.