Potassium hydroxide
What is Potassium hydroxide?
Potassium hydroxide is an inorganic compound, a strong alkali. It is typically produced industrially through the electrolysis of potassium chloride solutions. It is a white solid, highly soluble in water.
Is Potassium hydroxide vegan?
Potassium hydroxide is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Potassium hydroxide gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Potassium hydroxide a major allergen?
Potassium hydroxide is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Potassium hydroxide used for?
Potassium hydroxide is used as an acidity regulator in food processing.
Is Potassium hydroxide safe?
Potassium hydroxide is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed as E525.
Why it's used
Potassium hydroxide is used as an acidity regulator in food processing. It can help to control the pH of foods, which can affect texture, flavour, and shelf life. It is commonly found in products like cocoa powders, where it is used to create 'Dutch-processed' cocoa, and in some baked goods.
Health notes
Potassium hydroxide is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed as E525. It is used in small quantities as an acidity regulator. European food safety authorities have evaluated its safety. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At the levels typically used in food, it is not considered to pose a health risk.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.9 Edible caseinates | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Potassium hydroxide is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Potassium hydroxide
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