Origin
E 501 or potassium carbonate is chemically the potassium salt of carbonic acid. The traditional name potash originates from the method used to produce potassium carbonate in earlier times: by washing wood ash with water and distilling it in a pot. Today, different methods are applied. For industrial use in the food industry, E 501 is produced from carbon dioxide (E 290) as well as potassium lye.
Usage
E 501 helps baked goods to remain light and build volume, which is why it is primarily used in the baking industry. E 501 reacts with acids and releases carbon dioxide, contributing to the leavening of doughs. Additionally, it aids in speeding up the browning process of doughs. Potassium carbonate can be commonly found in the following foods: baking powder, cocoa, coffee substitutes, and chocolate. E 501 is generally allowed without restriction for all foodstuffs and without maximum quantity limits.
Risks
No ADI value (Acceptable Daily Intake) has been established for E 501. E 501 is considered harmless.