Potassium bicarbonate

Potassium bicarbonate (CAS 298-14-6), also known as E501ii, is an inorganic potassium salt used across food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries as a leavening agent and pH buffer. Monopotassium carbonate is a recognized trade term in some markets, though KHCO3 remains the most common shorthand among technical buyers. Its primary commercial value lies in CO₂ release under heat conditions.

In food manufacturing, it functions as a leavening agent in baked goods and as an acidity regulator in cocoa processing, where it also modifies flavor development. Winemakers use it to reduce excess tartaric acidity. This makes it a preferred alternative to calcium carbonate in premium wine production. In agriculture, it is registered as a fungicide active ingredient in low-residue crop protection programs against powdery mildew.

Pharmaceutical formulators use it as an excipient in effervescent tablets and as a pH-adjusting agent in topical and oral preparations. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules for various uses. Standard grades include food-grade (FCC), USP, and Ph. Eur., with technical grade available for agricultural and industrial applications. Packaging typically ranges from 25 kg bags to bulk quantities.