What is E261?
E261 is Potassium Acetate — the potassium salt of acetic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E261 (Potassium Acetate)?
E261 is the E-number for potassium acetate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. The potassium salt of acetic acid. Like every E-number, E261 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E261 in detail below.
Where is E261 found?
E261 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E261) or by its full name, potassium acetate. Common foods that may contain E261 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E261 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E261 safe?
E261 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E261.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E261 vegan?
E261 is vegan. The potassium salt of acetic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E261 →Is E261 halal?
E261 is halal. The potassium salt of acetic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E261 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E261 in food?
E261 is Potassium Acetate — the potassium salt of acetic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E261 safe to eat?
Yes. E261 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E261 vegan?
E261 is vegan. The potassium salt of acetic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E261 halal?
E261 is halal. The potassium salt of acetic acid, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).