Potassium bicarbonate

Potassium Bicarbonate is a colorless, odorless, slightly basic, salty substance. Recognized by the E number E501, it is used as a food additive and in farm practice.

Chemical Properties

Potassium bicarbonate occurs as a crystal or a soft white granular powder and has a slightly alkaline taste. Its solutions are neutral to litmus. It is soluble in water and very slightly soluble in alcohol. Its element symbol is KHCO3.

Uses

Potassium bicarbonate is used in the food industry as a buffering agent, in farming to neutralize acidic soil, and as a fire suppression agent. It is also a key ingredient in club soda, where it imparts a slightly salty flavor.

Food Industry

In the food industry, potassium bicarbonate is used as an acidity regulator and leavening agent. It can replace sodium bicarbonate in baking and cooking applications to reduce the sodium content of the finished product. It is known by the E number E501.

Farming

In farming, potassium bicarbonate is used to neutralize acidic soil. It is preferred over lime for its quick action. It also provides a source of potassium for the plants.

Fire Suppression

Potassium bicarbonate is used as a fire suppression agent ("Purple-K") in some dry chemical fire extinguishers, as the principal component of the Purple-K dry chemical, and in some applications of condensed aerosol fire suppression.

Health Effects

Potassium bicarbonate is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. However, excessive consumption can lead to hyperkalemia.

See Also

• Sodium bicarbonate
• Acidity regulator
• Leavening agent
• Hyperkalemia

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