Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
The food additive E501(i) is a subtype of the additive E501 and is known as potassium carbonate.
The additive E501(i) is the potassium salt of carbonic acid with the chemical formula K2CO3. It has pronounced alkaline properties and dissolves well in water.
Potassium carbonate is mainly obtained through the complete carbonization of potassium hydroxide (KOH) with carbon dioxide (CO2) in an aqueous medium.
Unlike potassium hydrogen carbonate E501(ii), the additive E501(i) has stronger alkaline properties, making it more effective in products where pronounced buffering action and more active acidity regulation are required.
In the food industry, the additive E501(i) is used in the production of cookies, confectionery creams, and soft drinks, where maintaining a stable pH level is necessary, as well as in cocoa product manufacturing to regulate bitterness.
For more details about the properties of potassium salts, their effects on the human body, and references to scientific studies, see the material on the food additive E501.