E366 – Potassium fumarate
Acidity RegulatorDescription
White crystalline powder
Notes
Potassium fumarate is a white, crystalline powder made by combining fumaric acid with potassium. Fumaric acid itself is found naturally in many plants and fungi, including bolete mushrooms and lichen, but for commercial use it's typically produced through fermentation using specific fungi or through chemical synthesis from other organic compounds. This additive works as an acidity regulator, meaning it helps control and stabilize the pH levels in foods to keep them at just the right level of acidity or alkalinity. You'll find potassium fumarate used in processed foods where maintaining consistent acidity is important for taste, texture, and shelf life, though it's less commonly encountered than other acidity regulators. Potassium fumarate is considered safe for consumption and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans since it doesn't come from animal sources. It's also generally acceptable under various religious dietary laws. The additive is approved for use in many countries, though it's not as widely used as some other acidity regulators, so you're more likely to see it in specialty or industrial food applications.