Ammonium sulfate
Learn what Ammonium sulfate (E517) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Ammonium sulfate?
Food additive with the role of stabilizer, buffering agent (support for other additives), and leavening agent. It is a natural mineral formed by the combination of ammonium salts with sulfuric acid. It is mainly used in baked goods and pastries.
Why is Ammonium sulfate added to food?
Ammonium sulfate (E517) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Baked goods and pastries.
Permitted quantity: There is no limit to the acceptable daily intake.
Is Ammonium sulfate safe?
Moderate concern
No side effects have been reported at the levels found in food.
Is Ammonium sulfate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ammonium sulfate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Ammonium sulfate
- Baked goods and pastries
How to spot Ammonium sulfate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E517
- Ammonium sulfate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- ammonium suliate
- ammonium sultate
- dmmonium sulfate
- ammonium sulfdte
- ammonium sulfate
- ammonium $ulfate
- ammonlum sulfate
Better alternatives
• Not recommended for people with severe kidney conditions. • People with high blood pressure should avoid excessive consumption. • People with allergies or sensitivities to sulfates should avoid its use.
Also known as
- ammonium suliate
- ammonium sultate
- dmmonium sulfate
- ammonium sulfdte
- ammonium sulfate
- ammonium $ulfate
- ammonlum sulfate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Ammonium sulfate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E517 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Ammonium sulfate
- Is Ammonium sulfate safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the levels found in food.
- Is Ammonium sulfate banned anywhere?
- Ammonium sulfate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Ammonium sulfate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Ammonium sulfate on a food label?
- Look for E517, Ammonium sulfate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ammonium suliate, ammonium sultate, dmmonium sulfate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.