Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Total Sources: 47
Verified Claims: 34
Scientific Sources: 24
Potassium fumarate is a potassium salt of fumaric acid, used as a food additive, acidity regulator, and in some medical treatments [3], [5], [15]. It appears as a white crystalline powder and is soluble in water [15].
Potassium fumarate is a compound formed by combining potassium with fumaric acid. Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid that is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle, a key process in energy production in the body [15].
Moderate. While potassium fumarate has established uses, some individuals express anxiety related to potential side effects, sourcing, and interactions with specific health conditions [28], [43].
Some online discussions suggest concerns about potential allergic reactions to corn-derived ingredients, including those used to produce additives like potassium fumarate [40], [41].
There are discussions around the halal status of food additives, with some consumers seeking confirmation that ingredients like thickeners or other additives meet halal dietary requirements [44], [45], [46].
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) published a report including the evaluation of acids and bases, which may have included potassium fumarate [8].
JECFA published a report on the evaluation of food additives, including specifications for identity and purity [1].
Potassium Acetate Injection, which may be related as a source of potassium, was approved by the FDA [18].
Regulation (EU) No 257/2010 set a program for the re-evaluation of food additives, including fumaric acid (E 297), which could encompass potassium fumarate [2].
EFSA re-evaluated glutamic acid and glutamate salts, including potassium glutamate (E 622) as food additives [9].
EFSA published a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of fumaric acid as a feed additive for all animal species [3].
EFSA re-evaluated saccharin and its salts, including potassium saccharin (E 954), as food additives [10].
Preparation, identification, and X-ray diffraction analysis of potassium salts of fumaric acid [14]
First appeared: 1961
Fumaric acid esters, including potassium fumarate, are used in the treatment of psoriasis [5], [6], [12].
Long-term treatment with fumaric acid preparations can be associated with proximal tubular damage in the kidneys [13].
Fumaric acid is a crucial component of the Krebs cycle and mitochondrial function [11].
Substituting potassium-containing salt substitutes for regular salt can help lower blood pressure and the risk of stroke [7], [21], [22].
Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of fumaric acid for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation and extension of use (Life SUPPLIES NV)
Fumaric acid remains safe under the authorized conditions of use for terrestrial animals, consumers, and the environment, but the Panel cannot conclude on the safety for aquatic animals under all authorized conditions of use. Fumaric acid is irritant to skin, eyes and respiratory tract, and should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser due to the presence of nickel [3], [4].
Fumaric acid ester-induced renal Fanconi syndrome: evidence of mitochondrial toxicity
Fumaric acid esters can cause renal Fanconi syndrome, with renal histology showing proximal tubular damage and abnormal mitochondrial morphology [11].
Longterm treatment of psoriasis using fumaric acid preparations can be associated with severe proximal tubular damage
Long-term treatment with fumaric acid can lead to severe proximal tubular damage [13].
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a food additive under specific conditions [20]. However, concerns exist regarding potential toxicity at high doses and in individuals with kidney dysfunction [11], [13], [28].
While fumaric acid and its derivatives have therapeutic applications, potential side effects, especially with long-term use or in susceptible individuals, warrant careful monitoring [13].
Potassium Chloride
As a salt substitute to reduce sodium intake and increase potassium intake; however, it may not be suitable for individuals with kidney disease [21], [28], [33], [34].
Where to find: Available in most grocery stores.
Dietary Sources of Potassium
Consuming potassium-rich foods like leafy greens, beans, fruits (bananas, cantaloupe), and low-fat dairy can help meet potassium needs [7], [24], [38], [39].
Read food labels carefully to identify products containing potassium fumarate or other fumaric acid derivatives [21], [35], [36].
Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) for personalized dietary recommendations, especially if you have kidney disease or other health conditions [38].
25.
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-169502/pediatric-multivitamin-no-114-iron-fumarate-oral/details32.
https://food.chemlinked.com/news/food-news/south-korea-designates-prohibited-ingredients-in-foods