Potassium acetate

Potassium acetate (CAS 127-08-2) is the potassium salt of acetic acid, sold under trade designations including PC 46, LK 25, and DPG 35, and abbreviated as AcOK in laboratory and industrial contexts. As a food additive it carries the E-number E261, authorised across the EU as an acidity regulator and preservative.

In food and beverage processing, potassium acetate regulates pH by releasing acetate ions that buffer against acidification, extending shelf life without sodium loading. In pharmaceutical manufacturing it serves as a catalyst in esterification reactions and as a buffering agent in parenteral formulations, where precise pH control directly affects drug stability and bioavailability.

Potassium acetate is available in food-grade (E261), FCC, and Ph.Eur.-compliant grades, supporting procurement across regulated industries. The substance is fully registered under REACH (EC 204-822-2, HS 29159000) and is typically supplied as crystalline solid or powder in 25 kg bags or bulk quantities.