Sodium aluminum sulfate
Learn what Sodium aluminum sulfate (E521) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sodium 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 Sodium aluminum sulfate added to food?
Sodium aluminum sulfate (E521) 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 Sodium 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 Sodium aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium aluminum sulfate okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium aluminum sulfate
- Candied fruits and vegetables
- prepared fish
See the full list of foods that contain Sodium aluminum sulfate →
How to spot Sodium aluminum sulfate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E521
- Sodium aluminum sulfate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium aluminum suliate
- $odium aluminum sulfate
- sodium alumlnum sulfate
- sodium aluminum sulfdte
- sodium aluminum $ulfate
- sodium aluminum sultate
- sodium aluminum sulfate
- sodium dluminum sulfate
- sodlum aluminum sulfate
Better alternatives
• People with kidney conditions should avoid using sodium aluminum sulfate, as it can lead to aluminum accumulation in the body, affecting kidney function. • Not recommended for individuals with central nervous system disorders, as aluminum can interfere with cognitive functions and worsen neurological conditions. • Excessive use can cause gastrointestinal irritation, such as abdominal pain, nausea, or stomach discomfort. • Avoid using in combination with medications that affect aluminum metabolism or interfere with kidney function.
Also known as
- sodium aluminum suliate
- $odium aluminum sulfate
- sodium alumlnum sulfate
- sodium aluminum sulfdte
- sodium aluminum $ulfate
- sodium aluminum sultate
- sodium aluminum sulfate
- sodium dluminum sulfate
- sodlum aluminum sulfate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium aluminum sulfate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E521 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium aluminum sulfate
- Is Sodium 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 Sodium aluminum sulfate banned anywhere?
- Sodium aluminum sulfate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium aluminum sulfate safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium aluminum sulfate on a food label?
- Look for E521, Sodium aluminum sulfate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium aluminum suliate, $odium aluminum sulfate, sodium alumlnum sulfate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.