Potassium lactate
Learn what Potassium lactate (E326) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Potassium lactate?
The potassium salt of lactic acid (E270), a natural acid produced by bacteria in fermented foods. All fermented foods are rich in lactic acid. It is commercially obtained through bacterial fermentation of starch and molasses. It is also produced in large quantities in the large intestine by the body's own bacteria.
Why is Potassium lactate added to food?
Potassium lactate (E326) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Lactates, ice cream, soups, baking powder.
Permitted quantity: There is no limit for the acceptable daily intake.
Is Potassium lactate safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No side effects at the quantities used in food.
Is Potassium lactate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium lactate okay for kids?
D- or DL- lactates (stereo isomers) are not allowed in food for infants and young children, as their liver has not yet developed the necessary enzymes to metabolize these forms of lactates.
Common foods that contain Potassium lactate
- Lactates
- ice cream
- soups
- baking powder
How to spot Potassium lactate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E326
- Potassium lactate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- potdssium lactate
- potassium laetate
- pota$sium lactate
- potas$ium lactate
- dotassium lactate
- potassium ldctate
- potasslum lactate
- potassium lactdte
- potassium lactate
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea or abdominal discomfort. • May increase potassium levels in the body, which can be dangerous for people with kidney conditions or electrolyte imbalances. • People with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort, even though potassium lactate contains low levels of lactose. • Can cause allergic reactions such as skin irritation or itching in people sensitive to dairy-derived products. • High consumption may lead to negative effects on cardiac function, especially in cases of hyperkalemia (excess potassium).
Also known as
- potdssium lactate
- potassium laetate
- pota$sium lactate
- potas$ium lactate
- dotassium lactate
- potassium ldctate
- potasslum lactate
- potassium lactdte
- potassium lactate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Potassium lactate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E326 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Potassium lactate
- Is Potassium lactate safe to eat?
- No side effects at the quantities used in food.
- Is Potassium lactate banned anywhere?
- Potassium lactate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Potassium lactate safe for children?
- D- or DL- lactates (stereo isomers) are not allowed in food for infants and young children, as their liver has not yet developed the necessary enzymes to metabolize these forms of lactates.
- How do I spot Potassium lactate on a food label?
- Look for E326, Potassium lactate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: potdssium lactate, potassium laetate, pota$sium lactate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.