Potassium diacetate

Listed as a preservative by Canada.

Listed as preservatives (CA)
Chemical structure of Potassium diacetate, from PubChem compound 162367992
Structure from PubChem CID 162367992 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

A one-to-one compound of potassium acetate and acetic acid, used as a preservative and acidity regulator, particularly in meat products where it holds Listeria in check.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Potassium diacetate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

55 food categories

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMP
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPOnly UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMP
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMP
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMP
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPOnly UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMP
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMP
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMP
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMP
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMP
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMP
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMP
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMP
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMP
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMP
  • 13.2 Foods for infants — 5,000 mg/kg
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMP
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMP
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMP
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMP
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPFor juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMP
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMP
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMP
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMP
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMP
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMP
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMP
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMP
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMP
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMP
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMP
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMP
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMP
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMP
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMP
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMP
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMP
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMP
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMP
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMP
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMP
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMP
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMP
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMP
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMP
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMP
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMP
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMP
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 54 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

2 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Brawn; Headcheese; Meat and meat by-product loaf; Meat by-product loaf; Meat loaf; Meat lunch; Meat roll; Potted meat; Potted meat by-product; Prepared meat or prepared meat by-product; Prepared poultry meat or prepared poultry meat by-product; Preserved meat or preserved meat by-product; Preserved poultry meat or preserved poultry meat by-product; Sausage. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 2,500 ppm. If used in combination with modified vinegar or sodium diacetate, or both, the total amount of potassium diacetate or sodium diacetate, or both, whether from their addition or from the addition of modified vinegar, not to exceed 2,500 ppm. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0176, NOM/ADM-0122, NOM/ADM-0080. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item P.4(a)
  • In: Unstandardized preparations of meat or meat by-product; Unstandardized preparations of poultry meat or poultry meat by-product. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 2,500 ppm. If used in combination with modified vinegar or sodium diacetate, or both, the total amount of potassium diacetate or sodium diacetate, or both, whether from their addition or from the addition of modified vinegar, not to exceed 2,500 ppm. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0176, NOM/ADM-0122, NOM/ADM-0080. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item P.4(b)
Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11)and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

73 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Authorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment Period of application: From 6 February 2013.’.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wineAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Authorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Authorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Authorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013.’.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek Period of application: From 6 February 2013.’.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roeAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 72 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

71 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children as defined by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment Period of application: From 6 February 2013.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek Period of application: From 6 February 2013.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. quantum satis. only prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 261, Potassium acetates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe. Period of application: From 6 February 2013 .
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyNo listing matchedThis site imports only Japan’s list of designated additives (Appended Table 1 to the Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act), matched by English name. Existing additives, natural flavouring agents and ordinary foods used as additives are permitted outside that list and are not imported, so an empty row does not show that Japan does not permit the substance.
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyNo listing matchedThis site imports Part III of South Korea’s Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, matched by CAS number, then INS number, then exact name. Mixed preparations and sanitisers are not imported, and an entry whose identifiers disagreed with a page’s is held for review, so an empty row does not show that South Korea does not permit the substance.
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationNot listedDoes not appear on this jurisdiction’s permitted list. That is not the same as being prohibited.
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFANot listedDoes not appear on this jurisdiction’s permitted list. That is not the same as being prohibited.

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand5,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 54 GMP
Canada—2 no quantity stated
European Union—46 several limits, 5 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain—71 quantum satis

What it is made from

Made by partly neutralising acetic acid with potassium hydroxide or carbonate and crystallising the compound.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

InChIKey
FHUOTRMCFQTSOA-UHFFFAOYSA-N
PubChem
CID 162367992

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 261(ii) Potassium diacetate

Potassium diacetate is a molecular compound of potassium acetate and acetic acid

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
224-217-7
Chemical name
Potassium hydrogen diacetate
Chemical formula
C₄H₇KO₄
Molecular weight
158,2
Assay
Content 36 to 38 % of free acetic acid and 61 to 64 % of potassium acetate
Description
White crystals

Identification

pH
4,5-5 (10 % aqueous solution)
Test for acetate
Passes test
Test for potassium
Passes test

Purity criteria

Water content
Not more than 1 % (Karl Fischer method)
Formic acid, formates and other oxidisable substances
Not more than 1 000 mg/kg expressed as formic acid
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 261(ii)

Every name it appears under

4 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E261

As it appears in regulation

  • Potassium acetates

Other names

  • Acetic acid, potassium salt (2:1)
  • Potassium Diacetate

Hazard reference values

No reference value for this substance in the sources we hold.

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is Potassium diacetate?
A one-to-one compound of potassium acetate and acetic acid, used as a preservative and acidity regulator, particularly in meat products where it holds Listeria in check.
What is Potassium diacetate used for in food?
It is listed as a preservative — the role Canada assigns it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Potassium diacetate permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU and Great Britain permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Potassium diacetate vegan?
Yes. Potassium diacetate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

Machine-readable: a JSON record of this additive is given on request —how to ask for access.

Follow changes to Potassium diacetate:Atom feed — regulatory events, and any change the weekly refresh detects in its provisions.