Potassium Chloride
Also known as: E508, Sylvine, potassium salt
Potassium chloride is FDA GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1622. EFSA's 2019 re-evaluation set ADI "not specified" — no carcinogenic, genotoxic, or reproductive concerns at typical intake.
What it is
Potassium chloride (KCl), an inorganic salt commonly used as a low-sodium salt substitute and nutrient.
Salt substitute, flavor enhancer, gelling agent, nutrient source.
Why it's flagged
- Hyperkalemia risk in people with kidney disease, heart failure, or on certain medications
- Bitter taste at high concentrations
What regulators actually say
"Potassium chloride (KCl, CAS Reg. No. 7447-40-7)... is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in food in accordance with current good manufacturing practice."
"The Panel concluded that there was no need to set a numerical ADI and there was no safety concern at the refined exposure assessment of KCl (E 508) used as a food additive."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1622; FDA guidance promoting as salt substitute
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E508; ADI not specified (EFSA 2019)
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