Ingredient · E326

Contains 2% Or Less Potassium Lactate

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Potassium lactate is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in processed meats, poultry, …

What it is

Potassium lactate is the potassium salt of lactic acid. It is produced by the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as corn or beet sugar, by lactic acid bacteria. It is a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water.

Why it's used

Potassium lactate is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in processed meats, poultry, and fish. It helps to control the growth of bacteria, extend shelf life, and provide a slightly salty or tangy taste. It is often found in pepperoni, salami, hot dogs, and other cured meats.

Health notes

Potassium lactate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a food additive. It is also approved for use in the European Union. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated potassium lactate and established acceptable daily intake levels. At typical consumption levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. It is a source of potassium, an essential mineral.

Allergen info

Potassium lactate is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing Contains 2% Or Less Potassium Lactate

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WINCO FOODS Winco Foods, Sliced Turkey Pastrami Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 111kcal 15.6Protein 4.4Fat 6.7Carbs JENNIE-O Jennie-O, Over Roasted Turkey Breast Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 107kcal 21.4Protein 0.9Fat 1.8Carbs KIRKWOOD Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Portion Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 107kcal 21.4Protein 1.8Fat 1.8Carbs KIRKWOOD Turkey Breast Portion Oven Roasted, Turkey Breast Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 107kcal 21.4Protein 1.8Fat 1.8Carbs Smithfield Farmland Corp. Smoked Spiral Ham Slices & Pieces Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 43% DV per serving 190kcal 16.7Protein 11.9Fat 4.8Carbs Earl Campbell Meat Products, Inc. Beef Sausage Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 321kcal 12.5Protein 28.6Fat 5.4Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company 20 Sausage Biscuits Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 359kcal 9.0Protein 24.4Fat 26.9Carbs Blue Grass Quality Meats Smoked Sausage Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 288kcal 10.6Protein 25.8Fat 3.0Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company Hillshire Farm, American Craft Sausage, Wisconsin Cheddar, Wisconsin Cheddar Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 23% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 329kcal 13.4Protein 29.3Fat 3.7Carbs Pie Piper Products Ltd. Pretzel Dog Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 283kcal 12.4Protein 11.5Fat 31.9Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 94kcal 18.9Protein 0.9Fat 1.9Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company Jumbo Franks Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 24% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 340kcal 9.4Protein 30.2Fat 3.8Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.