E536Anti-caking Agent

Potassium ferrocyanide

Learn what Potassium ferrocyanide (E536) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Potassium ferrocyanide?

A food additive used as an anti-caking agent, added to salt, salt substitutes, and spices, at a maximum of 20 mg/kg, either alone or in combination with sodium or calcium ferrocyanide.

Why is Potassium ferrocyanide added to food?

Potassium ferrocyanide (E536) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Spices.

Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 25 mg/kg body weight.

Is Potassium ferrocyanide safe?

Low concern

No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in products.

Is Potassium ferrocyanide banned anywhere?

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

Is Potassium ferrocyanide okay for kids?

Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Potassium ferrocyanide

  • Spices

See the full list of foods that contain Potassium ferrocyanide

How to spot Potassium ferrocyanide on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E536
  • Potassium ferrocyanide

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • dotassium ferrocyanide
  • potasslum ferrocyanide
  • potassium ferroeyanide
  • potassium ferrocyanide
  • potdssium ferrocyanide
  • potassium ferrocydnide
  • potassium ferrocyanlde
  • potas$ium ferrocyanide
  • potassium terrocyanide
  • pota$sium ferrocyanide
  • potassium ierrocyanide

Better alternatives

• People with severe kidney conditions should avoid products containing potassium ferrocyanide, as it may affect the elimination of toxic substances from the body. • Not recommended for individuals allergic to cyanide-based compounds or who have sensitivity to ferrocyanide. • Excessive use may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and breathing difficulties due to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body. • Avoid use in combination with medications that affect kidney function or interfere with potassium metabolism.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • dotassium ferrocyanide
  • potasslum ferrocyanide
  • potassium ferroeyanide
  • potassium ferrocyanide
  • potdssium ferrocyanide
  • potassium ferrocydnide
  • potassium ferrocyanlde
  • potas$ium ferrocyanide
  • potassium terrocyanide
  • pota$sium ferrocyanide
  • potassium ierrocyanide

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Potassium ferrocyanide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E536 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Potassium ferrocyanide

Is Potassium ferrocyanide safe to eat?
No side effects have been reported at the amounts used in products.
Is Potassium ferrocyanide banned anywhere?
Potassium ferrocyanide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium ferrocyanide safe for children?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
How do I spot Potassium ferrocyanide on a food label?
Look for E536, Potassium ferrocyanide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dotassium ferrocyanide, potasslum ferrocyanide, potassium ferroeyanide.

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