firming agent INS 520

Aluminium Sulfate E520

stabilizer, carrier — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved
🇺🇸 USA: Approved
🇯🇵 Japan: Approved
🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved
🇨🇦 Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Aluminium sulfate (Al2(SO4)3)

CAS: 10043-01-3

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?

Beyond food, Aluminium Sulfate 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.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by category (typically 30-200 mg/kg as Al) mg/kg

Permitted in limited food categories with maximum residue limits. Primarily candied and crystallized fruits.

Official EFSA Link
🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS (limited use)

Limited to specific uses in food processing, particularly pickling.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Restricted use with maximum residue levels.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (limited use in specific applications)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

no ADI established (limited use with maximum levels)

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by reacting aluminum hydroxide or bauxite ore with sulfuric acid. The solution is then crystallized to obtain various hydrated forms of aluminum sulfate.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Astringent in some antiperspirants and styptic pencils (though potassium alum is more common).

Medical

Vaccine adjuvants (though usually as aluminum hydroxide or phosphate).

Industrial

Water treatment (flocculation), paper sizing, dyeing mordant, fireproofing textiles.

Household

Pickling cucumbers (in some traditional recipes), water purification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Aluminium Sulfate (E520)?
Aluminium Sulfate (E520) is a firming agent used in food products. It is stabilizer, carrier and synthetic. Aluminium sulfate does not occur naturally in pure form, though related alum minerals exist. All commercial production is synthetic.
What is the ADI for Aluminium Sulfate?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Aluminium Sulfate is not specified (limited use in specific applications) 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 Aluminium Sulfate?
Aluminium Sulfate is used in various food categories including Candied fruits and vegetables, Crystallized fruits and vegetables. It is used as a firming agent in these products.
Is Aluminium Sulfate the same as Aluminum sulfate?
Yes, Aluminium Sulfate is also known as Aluminum sulfate, Alum (when referring to hydrated forms), Papermaker's alum. These are different names for the same substance.