E523Stabilizer

Ammonium aluminum sulfate

Learn what Ammonium aluminum sulfate (E523) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Ammonium 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 Ammonium aluminum sulfate added to food?

Ammonium aluminum sulfate (E523) 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 Ammonium 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 Ammonium aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?

✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.

Is Ammonium aluminum sulfate okay for kids?

Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Ammonium aluminum sulfate

  • Candied fruits and vegetables
  • prepared fish

See the full list of foods that contain Ammonium aluminum sulfate

How to spot Ammonium aluminum sulfate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E523
  • Ammonium aluminum sulfate

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • ammonium alumlnum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum suliate
  • ammonium aluminum sulfdte
  • ammonium dluminum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum $ulfate
  • dmmonium aluminum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum sultate
  • ammonium aluminum sulfate
  • ammonlum aluminum sulfate

Better alternatives

• People with kidney conditions should avoid using ammonium aluminum sulfate, as it can affect kidney function and lead to aluminum accumulation in the body. • Not recommended for individuals with central nervous system disorders, as aluminum can affect cognitive functions and may contribute to neurological conditions. • Excessive use can cause gastrointestinal irritation, such as abdominal pain and nausea. • Avoid using in combination with medications that affect aluminum metabolism or other substances that may interfere with kidney function.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • ammonium alumlnum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum suliate
  • ammonium aluminum sulfdte
  • ammonium dluminum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum $ulfate
  • dmmonium aluminum sulfate
  • ammonium aluminum sultate
  • ammonium aluminum sulfate
  • ammonlum aluminum sulfate

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Ammonium aluminum sulfate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E523 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Ammonium aluminum sulfate

Is Ammonium 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 Ammonium aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?
Ammonium aluminum sulfate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ammonium aluminum sulfate safe for children?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
How do I spot Ammonium aluminum sulfate on a food label?
Look for E523, Ammonium aluminum sulfate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ammonium alumlnum sulfate, ammonium aluminum suliate, ammonium aluminum sulfdte.

Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.