Aluminum sulfate
Learn what Aluminum sulfate (E520) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Aluminum sulfate?
A food additive used as a stabilizer, hardening agent, and leavening agent, used in candied, crystallized, and glazed fruits and vegetables, as well as in egg-based preparations and fish, mollusk, and crustacean products.
Why is Aluminum sulfate added to food?
Aluminum sulfate (E520) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Candied fruits and vegetables, prepared fish.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.6 mg/kg body weight.
Is Aluminum sulfate safe?
Low concern
The toxic effect of aluminum on the body is known, especially on the nervous system, as well as its action as an inhibitor of calcium, iodine, and B vitamins absorption.
Is Aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Aluminum sulfate okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Aluminum sulfate
- Candied fruits and vegetables
- prepared fish
How to spot Aluminum sulfate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E520
- Aluminum sulfate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- aluminum suliate
- aluminum $ulfate
- aluminum sulfate
- dluminum sulfate
- aluminum sultate
- alumlnum sulfate
- aluminum sulfdte
Better alternatives
• People with kidney conditions should avoid using aluminum sulfate, as it can interfere with the elimination of aluminum from the body and lead to its accumulation, affecting kidney function. • Not recommended for individuals with neurological or cognitive conditions, as aluminum can affect brain function and contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. • Excessive use can cause gastrointestinal irritation, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. • Avoid using in combination with medications that affect aluminum metabolism or substances that may interfere with kidney function.
Also known as
- aluminum suliate
- aluminum $ulfate
- aluminum sulfate
- dluminum sulfate
- aluminum sultate
- alumlnum sulfate
- aluminum sulfdte
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Aluminum sulfate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E520 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Aluminum sulfate
- Is Aluminum sulfate safe to eat?
- The toxic effect of aluminum on the body is known, especially on the nervous system, as well as its action as an inhibitor of calcium, iodine, and B vitamins absorption.
- Is Aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?
- Aluminum sulfate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Aluminum sulfate safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Aluminum sulfate on a food label?
- Look for E520, Aluminum sulfate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: aluminum suliate, aluminum $ulfate, aluminum sulfate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.