What is E501?
E501 is Potassium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a raising agent to help make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas.
What is E501 (Potassium Carbonates)?
E501 is the E-number for potassium carbonates, one of the raising agents group of food additives (E500–E599). Additives in this group make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas. Mineral salts produced industrially. Like every E-number, E501 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 E501 in detail below.
Where is E501 found?
E501 is typically used in cakes, biscuits, self-raising flour, bread and baking mixes. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E501) or by its full name, potassium carbonates. Common foods that may contain E501 include:
- Cakes
- Biscuits
- Self-raising flour
- Bread and baking mixes
Full guide: foods containing E501 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E501 safe?
E501 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 E501.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E501 vegan?
E501 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E501 →Is E501 halal?
E501 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E501 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E501 in food?
E501 is Potassium Carbonates — mineral salts produced industrially, used as a raising agent to help make doughs and batters rise by releasing gas.
Is E501 safe to eat?
Yes. E501 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E501 vegan?
E501 is vegan. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E501 halal?
E501 is halal. Mineral salts produced industrially, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).