Food Additives Encyclopedia

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aluminium sulfate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namealuminium sulfate
English namealuminium sulfate
INS/E numberINS 520
Functional classMineral salt
Year adopted1965
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Aluminium sulfate is an inorganic aluminium salt used in foods mainly as a firming agent, acidity regulator and processing aid. It firms produce tissue and adjusts pH, but its aluminium content subjects it to usage limits.

Source ​

Industrial：由铝原料与硫酸反应制得硫酸铝

Why is it used? ​

  • Acts as a firming agent keeping produce and pickles crisp
  • Adjusts processing pH as an acidity regulator
  • Serves as an aid in water-treatment processing
  • Used in some confectionery and bakery

Common Foods ​

  • Pickles and preserves
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Some confectionery
  • Processing aid (water treatment)
  • Bakery premixes

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：PTWI 1 mg/kg bw (as Al)

Concerns：

  • 铝摄入过量与神经毒性风险相关
  • 婴幼儿食品应避免使用含铝添加剂

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 520)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1065 (aluminium sulfate, GRASS, limited)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 520)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (520)

In a nutshell ​

Aluminium sulfate is an aluminium-containing firming agent and acidity regulator whose use is limited by aluminium intake.

Consumer Advice ​

Aluminium sulfate is an aluminium salt traditionally used as a raising agent (alum-type) and firming agent, and in water treatment. Because aluminium can accumulate in the body and is linked to health concerns, many countries including China now strictly limit or ban aluminium-based leavening agents in foods such as wheat products. Consumers should limit fried dough and puffed snacks and check labels for aluminium-containing ingredients.

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.