Compare E326 vs E261, potassium lactate vs Potassium acetate

Overview

E326 - potassium lactate

Potassium lactate (E326) is the potassium salt of lactic acid. Food makers use it to control acidity, keep foods moist, and help slow the growth of harmful bacteria in products like cooked meats and poultry. It has a mild, slightly salty taste and is widely approved for use in many countries.

E261 - Potassium acetate

Potassium acetate (E261) is a food additive used to control acidity and help preserve foods. It is the potassium salt of acetic acid, the acid that gives vinegar its sharp taste. You’ll mostly see it in pickled or seasoned foods where a stable, mild acidity is needed.

Synonyms

E326

potassium lactate

E261

Potassium acetate

Functions

acidity regulator humectant preservative

acidity regulator preservative

Origins

Products

Found in 2,226 products

Found in 293 products

Search rank & volume

#2831.1K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#1647.1K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×0.07

under-aware

×3.50

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

Is potassium lactate dairy?
No—despite the name, potassium lactate isn’t a dairy ingredient; it’s the potassium salt of lactic acid, typically made by fermenting plant sugars.
Is potassium lactate bad for you?
It’s considered safe at permitted food levels (E326; GRAS in the U.S.); those with kidney disease or on potassium‑restricted diets should monitor intake due to its potassium content.
What is potassium lactate in food?
A preservative and humectant that inhibits bacterial growth and helps retain moisture and control acidity, commonly used to extend shelf life in meats and poultry.
Does potassium lactate have dairy?
No—it contains no milk, lactose, or milk proteins; it is produced by neutralizing fermented lactic acid.
Is potassium lactate dairy free?
Yes—it's dairy‑ and lactose‑free; commercial food-grade material is generally made by fermentation of plant sugars.

Comparing E326 - potassium lactate vs E261 - Potassium acetate