Potassium malate
Learn what Potassium malate (E351) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Potassium malate?
A food additive categorized as an acidity regulator and humectant. It is the potassium salt of malic acid. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for dairy products, cheese and cheese substitutes, spreadable fats, sauces, instant soups and broths, condiments, fruit, vegetable, fish, meat, egg products, cereals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, sweets, ice cream, etc.
Why is Potassium malate added to food?
Potassium malate (E351) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Jams, creams, margarine.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Potassium malate safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Potassium malate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium malate okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Potassium malate
- Jams
- creams
- margarine
How to spot Potassium malate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E351
- Potassium malate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- pota$sium malate
- potdssium malate
- dotassium malate
- potassium mdlate
- potas$ium malate
- potasslum malate
- potassium maldte
- potassium malate
Better alternatives
• People with severe kidney conditions should avoid consuming potassium malate, as the kidneys may have difficulty eliminating excess potassium from the body, which could lead to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood). • Hyperkalemia may cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, arrhythmias, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest. • People undergoing treatment with medications that increase potassium levels, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), potassium-sparing diuretics, or potassium supplements, should be cautious when consuming potassium malate. • It is recommended to consult a doctor before consuming products containing this additive, especially in cases of pre-existing medical conditions.
Also known as
- pota$sium malate
- potdssium malate
- dotassium malate
- potassium mdlate
- potas$ium malate
- potasslum malate
- potassium maldte
- potassium malate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Potassium malate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E351 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Potassium malate
- Is Potassium malate safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Potassium malate banned anywhere?
- Potassium malate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Potassium malate safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Potassium malate on a food label?
- Look for E351, Potassium malate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: pota$sium malate, potdssium malate, dotassium malate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.