Potassium iodide

Potassium iodide (CAS 7681-11-0), commonly abbreviated as KI, is an inorganic iodine salt supplied across pharmaceutical, food, and industrial markets. It functions primarily as an iodine source and a catalyst precursor. This versatile chemical serves as a stabilizing agent in formulations where controlled iodide delivery is required. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, KI is used to compound thyroid-blocking preparations and expectorant syrups.

It appears in branded formulations such as Thyro-Block and Pima. Food and nutrition producers use it to fortify table salt and dietary supplements, meeting iodine supplementation requirements in regulated markets. In chemical synthesis and catalysis, KI acts as a halide catalyst or reagent precursor in organic reactions. It is particularly useful in nucleophilic substitution processes and various industrial chemical syntheses.

Agricultural and feed applications include its use as a trace mineral supplement in animal feed formulations. This helps to correct iodine deficiencies in livestock and supports overall animal health and growth. Potassium iodide is available as a white crystalline powder or granule. Standard grades include USP, BP, Ph. Eur., and food-grade (FCC), ensuring compliance with global regulatory requirements.

Pharmaceutical-grade material is subject to strict purity and heavy metal limits. Technical-grade material is also supplied for industrial and catalytic applications where compendial certification is not required.