E520 – Aluminium sulfate

Description

White crystalline solid or powder

Risks

Notes

Aluminium sulfate is a white, crystalline compound made by combining aluminium oxide (derived from bauxite ore) with sulfuric acid. This creates a water-soluble salt that forms clear solutions. It's been used for centuries in various applications, from water purification to paper making, and has found its way into food processing due to its useful binding properties. In food production, aluminium sulfate works as a firming agent, helping to maintain the structure and texture of certain foods. It's particularly useful in pickling processes, where it helps vegetables like cucumbers stay crisp and firm. You'll also find it used in some baking powders and in the processing of certain dairy products, where its ability to bind with proteins helps achieve desired textures. This is a synthetic additive that's suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, containing no animal-derived components. While aluminium sulfate is generally recognized as safe in the small amounts used in food, some consumers prefer to limit aluminium intake. It's approved for use in many countries but with strict limits on quantities. The compound is not relevant to common food allergies or religious dietary restrictions.