What is E326?
E326 is Potassium Lactate — the potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E326 (Potassium Lactate)?
E326 is the E-number for potassium lactate, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. The potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation. Like every E-number, E326 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 E326 in detail below.
Where is E326 found?
E326 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E326) or by its full name, potassium lactate. Common foods that may contain E326 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E326 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E326 safe?
E326 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 E326.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E326 vegan?
E326 is uncertain for vegans — it is the potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E326 →Is E326 halal?
E326 is halal. The potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E326 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E326 in food?
E326 is Potassium Lactate — the potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E326 safe to eat?
Yes. E326 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E326 vegan?
E326 is uncertain for vegans — it is the potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E326 halal?
E326 is halal. The potassium salt of lactic acid, usually from plant fermentation, 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).