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What is Potassium Chloride or E508?
Potassium Chloride or E508 is a food additive that is obtained from natural salt and parts of sea or rock salt. It acts as a flavour enhancer, stabilizer and thickening agent and is found in many bulk products as it prevents clumping during long term storage. Oftentimes it can replace salt and can be added to replenish electrolytes.
What are the other names this ingredient is also known as ?
Firming Agent (E-508) Gelling Agent (INS 508), Gelling Agent 508, Potassium Chloride (E508), Thickener (508), Thickener 508
What products is it used in?
Potassium chloride is used as a gelling agent that prevents clumping for longer storage periods and to increase the viscosity of liquids to give it more texture. It is also used as a stabiliser in the production of dairy products and condensed milk. Additionally, it is used in soaps, baby formula, cheese, ice cream, spreads, canned soups, sauces, prepared meals, sports drinks or electrolyte-replenishing beverages and as a substitute for table salt.
What is the source of this ingredient?
Potassium chloride is primarily a natural mineral salt extracted from underground deposits or brine from saltwater lakes. While it can be synthetically produced, its usual source is natural. Potassium Chloride is considered vegan and vegetarian as it is a salt compound chemically derived from potassium and chlorine and is commonly used as a salt substitute. Check product labels for details on the origin of ingredients in specific products.
Is this ingredient bad for me?
When consumed in larger quantities, potassium chloride can lead to gastric ulcerations and other gastrointestinal issues, muscle weakness, diarrhoea and vomiting.
What should I do?
It can be consumed in moderation.
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