Food Additives Encyclopedia

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potassium ferrocyanide ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepotassium ferrocyanide
English namepotassium ferrocyanide
INS/E numberINS 536
Functional classAnti-caking agent
Year adopted1965
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Potassium ferrocyanide is an iron-cyanide complex salt used mainly as an anticaking agent in salt and similar foods. Like its sodium counterpart, it is stable in stomach acid and releases virtually no free cyanide.

Source ​

Industrial：由氰化物与亚铁盐在碱性条件下络合生成亚铁氰化钾

Why is it used? ​

  • Acts as an anticaking agent preventing salt caking
  • Keeps powders free-flowing
  • Used in salted foods and seasonings
  • Effective at very low levels

Common Foods ​

  • Table salt and salt substitutes
  • Salted foods
  • Powdered seasonings
  • Pickles
  • Instant soups

Safety ​

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

Concerns：

  • 强酸性下可能分解，应避免与强酸共存
  • 按规定使用量使用

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 26878 食盐中允许使用

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 536)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.490 (potassium ferrocyanide in salt)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 536)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (536)

In a nutshell ​

Potassium ferrocyanide is a common anticaking agent in salt, safe as a stable complex.

Consumer Advice ​

Potassium ferrocyanide is a common anticaking agent in table salt, added at very low doses to prevent clumping, just like sodium ferrocyanide. Despite the 'cyanide' in its name, it is an extremely stable complex that does not break down into free cyanide, and authorities such as JECFA and EFSA confirm its safety. The amount added to salt is minuscule, making normal consumption completely safe.

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.