Food Additives Encyclopedia

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sulfuric acid ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namesulfuric acid
English namesulfuric acid
INS/E numberINS 513
Functional classAcidity regulator
Year adopted1965
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Sulfuric acid is a strong inorganic acid used mainly as a processing aid and acidity regulator in the food industry. It is used in saccharin production, starch hydrolysis, activated-carbon regeneration and pH adjustment.

Source ​

Industrial：由硫或硫铁矿燃烧生成二氧化硫，催化氧化为三氧化硫后吸收于水制得

Why is it used? ​

  • Acts as an acidity regulator for process pH
  • Used in starch and protein hydrolysis
  • Serves as a raw material in saccharin production
  • Regenerates and purifies activated carbon

Common Foods ​

  • Glucose syrups
  • Saccharin
  • Hydrolysed proteins
  • Processing aid (not directly added)
  • Sugar and syrup refining

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

  • 作为加工助剂需符合残留与纯度要求

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》（加工助剂）

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 513)
  • FDA 21 CFR 182.1075 (sulfuric acid, GRASS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 513)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (513)

In a nutshell ​

Sulfuric acid is used chiefly as a processing aid and acidity regulator for hydrolysis, refining and pH control.

Consumer Advice ​

Food-grade sulfuric acid is used in food processing mainly as an acidity regulator and in processes such as starch hydrolysis. Residual levels in finished products are extremely low because it is neutralised or removed during processing. Used to food-grade standards it is safe, and consumers never encounter the corrosive acid in finished foods.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.