Comparing E501II - Potassium hydrogen carbonate vs E525 - Potassium hydroxide

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Overview

E501II - Potassium hydrogen carbonate

Potassium hydrogen carbonate (E501ii), also known as potassium bicarbonate, is a white, odorless powder that releases carbon dioxide when it reacts with acids. In food, it mostly works as a low‑sodium leavening agent and a mild acidity regulator in baked goods and drink mixes. It is vegan and gluten‑free by nature.

E525 - Potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide (E525) is a strong alkaline ingredient used to control acidity in foods. In tiny, carefully measured amounts it helps keep products stable in taste, color, and texture, and it can also be used to help peel some fruits and vegetables during processing. It’s sometimes listed on labels as potassium hydroxide or E525.

Synonyms

E501ii

Potassium hydrogen carbonate

Potassium bicarbonate

E525

Potassium hydroxide

Functions

acidity regulator raising agent

acidity regulator

Origins

Products

Found in 458 products

Found in 11 products

Search rank & volume

#12412.4K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#9621.1K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×3.92

over-aware

×192.66

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

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

Popular questions

Is potassium bicarbonate good for you?
In the small amounts used in foods, potassium bicarbonate (E501ii) is generally recognized as safe and can help reduce sodium compared with baking soda. Large amounts may raise blood potassium—people with kidney disease or on potassium‑sparing medications should avoid high intakes.
Is potassium bicarbonate baking soda?
No—baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3); potassium bicarbonate (E501ii) is a sodium‑free alternative used similarly as a leavening agent.
What are the two sizes of potassium bicarbonate portable extinguishers?
Common portable potassium bicarbonate (PKP) extinguishers are typically 18‑lb and 27‑lb units.
Is potassium bicarbonate the same as baking soda?
No—baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, while potassium bicarbonate (E501ii) is the potassium version and a sodium‑free substitute.
What is potassium bicarbonate used for?
In foods it functions as a leavening/raising agent, acidity regulator, and stabilizer, often as a sodium‑free alternative to baking soda. It’s used in baking powders, low‑sodium baked goods, and to reduce acidity in products like wine and cocoa.