Potassium fumarate

Potassium fumarate is a potassium salt of fumaric acid, a compound that plays a crucial role in the Krebs cycle, a key metabolic pathway in all aerobic organisms. It is a white, odorless powder that is soluble in water and has a slightly acidic taste.

Chemical Properties

Potassium fumarate, with the chemical formula C4H2KO4, is a weak acid salt. It is a carboxylate salt and a dicarboxylic acid salt. It is a conjugate base of a fumaric acid.

Uses

Potassium fumarate is used in the food industry as a food additive and flavor enhancer. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as a buffering agent and in the production of synthetic resins and rubbers.

Food Industry

In the food industry, potassium fumarate is used as a food additive, specifically as an acidity regulator. It is used in baking to strengthen the gluten in flour, and it is also used in the production of certain types of cheese and wine.

Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, potassium fumarate is used as a buffering agent in medications. It helps to maintain the pH of the medication, ensuring that it remains stable and effective.

Safety

Potassium fumarate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, excessive consumption can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.

See Also

• Fumaric acid
• Potassium
• Food additive
• Pharmaceutical industry

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