Potassium Hydroxide(E525)
Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary
Potassium Hydroxide is a acidulant — Strong alkali used as cocoa product alkalizer, peeling additive for fruits/tubers
What it does
Strong alkali used as cocoa product alkalizer, peeling additive for fruits/tubers
Where you'll see it
cocoa products, peeled fruits and vegetables, processed foods
What the research says
Extremely corrosive. Ingestion may cause violent pain, bleeding, collapse, and death. When applied to mice skin in moderate doses, causes tumors. May cause skin rash and burning.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: GRAS
- EU: approved
- Notes: FDA banned household products >10%
Sources
- A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Extremely corrosive, and ingestion may cause violent pain, bleeding, collapse, and death. When applied to the skin of mice, moderate dosages cause tumors