Aluminium Sodium Sulphate
Also known as: E521, Soda alum, Sodium aluminium sulfate
E521 contributes to dietary aluminium intake. EFSA established a Tolerable Weekly Intake of 1 mg Al/kg bw/week and noted aluminium-containing additives can lead to exceedance of this TWI.
What it is
Aluminium sodium sulphate (sodium alum), an inorganic salt used as an acidity regulator and firming agent.
Acidity regulator, firming agent, and component of some baking powders.
Why it's flagged
- contributes to aluminium dietary intake
- TWI may be exceeded with combined sources
What regulators actually say
"The Panel established a tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 1 mg aluminium/kg body weight/week."
"Sodium aluminum sulfate — GRAS as a leavening agent."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Sodium aluminum sulfate is GRAS as a leavening agent (21 CFR 182.1763).
European Union — EFSA
Permitted (Reg. 1333/2008) with restrictions; EFSA TWI 1 mg Al/kg bw/week.
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