potassium bromate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | potassium bromate |
| English name | potassium bromate |
| INS/E number | INS 924 |
| Functional class | Flour treatment agent |
| Year adopted | 1965 |
| Approved by | United States (FDA) |
What is it?
Potassium bromate is an oxidising agent formerly used widely as a flour treatment/dough improver to strengthen gluten and improve loaf volume, but it is now banned in many countries.
Source
Industrial：溴化钾电解或溴与氢氧化钾中和、结晶
Why is it used?
- Strengthens gluten as a flour oxidant
- Improves bread volume and crumb
- Increases dough machine tolerance
Common Foods
- Bread wheat flour
- Bakery goods
- Noodles
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Withdrawn — not acceptable for use
Concerns：
- 潜在致癌物（动物实验致肾癌）
- 焙烤后可能残留
- 已被多国禁用
Usage Standard
China：中国已禁止作为面粉处理剂使用（GB 2760 删除）
International：
- EU: not authorised (banned)
- FDA: use discouraged; not banned but largely discontinued
- Codex: no maximum level (not recommended)
- FSANZ: not permitted
- Many countries banned (e.g. EU, Canada, Brazil, China)
In a nutshell
Potassium bromate is a potential carcinogen banned in many countries and should not be used as a flour treatment.
Consumer Advice
Potassium bromate was long used as a flour treatment agent and bread improver to strengthen dough and increase loaf volume. However, animal studies suggest it may be carcinogenic, and it has been banned in food in China, the EU, the UK, Canada and many other countries. Only a few jurisdictions still permit it under strict controls. Consumers may prefer bread and bakery products made with bromate-free flour.
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.