Potassium Hydrogen Carbonate

Potassium hydrogen carbonate, also known as potassium bicarbonate, is a potassium salt of carbonic acid. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It occurs naturally in small amounts in plants and can be produced industrially.

Potassium hydrogen carbonate is used as a food additive, primarily as an acidity regulator and leavening agent. It helps control the pH of foods and can produce carbon dioxide when heated, causing baked goods to rise. It is found in a variety of baked goods, including cookies, cakes, and biscuits.

Potassium hydrogen carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a food additive. It is a source of potassium, an essential mineral. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated potassium bicarbonate and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical dietary intakes.