Potassium Lactate

Preservative

Potassium Lactate at a glance

Category
Preservative
Also called
E326, 326
Commonly found in
Processed meats, Cheese spreads, Baked goods, Salad dressings
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Potassium Lactate?

Potassium lactate is a potassium salt of lactic acid, commonly used as a preservative and acidity regulator in food products. It is known by the food additive code E326 and is used to enhance the shelf life and safety of foods by reducing their pH and inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms. Lactic acid, from which potassium lactate is derived, can originate from either plant-based or animal-based sources, making it important for vegans to verify its origin when purchasing products containing this additive.

Also known as:

E326326

Diet Compatibility

VeganCaution

Potassium lactate (also called e326) comes from lactic acid, which can have animal or plant origins. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

Learn more →
PescatarianCaution

Potassium lactate (e326) comes from lactic acid, which can have animal or plant origins. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

Learn more →
VegetarianCaution

Potassium lactate (e326) comes from lactic acid, which can have animal or plant origins. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

Learn more →
Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Learn more →
Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Learn more →
Corn FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.

Learn more →
Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Learn more →
Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Learn more →
Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

Learn more →
GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Learn more →
Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Learn more →
Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Learn more →
Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Learn more →
Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Learn more →
Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Learn more →
Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Learn more →
Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Learn more →
Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Learn more →
Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

Learn more →
Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Learn more →
Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Learn more →
Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Learn more →
Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

Learn more →
Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Learn more →

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Potassium Lactate

People may choose to avoid potassium lactate due to dietary restrictions, such as veganism, since lactic acid can be sourced from either plants or animals. Without clear labeling on the source of lactic acid, it can be difficult for vegans to determine if potassium lactate aligns with their dietary choices. Additionally, individuals with sensitivities to lactic acid or its derivatives may also choose to avoid this ingredient.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Potassium Lactate

Browse products that match your diet.

Explore Products

Related to Potassium Lactate

Other ingredients people often check alongside Potassium Lactate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping

Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play