It was used for many years to soften hard water. However, today, it is used to lower acidity in wines and fluff up fish filets to avoid discoloration.
Is potassium carbonate safe in food?
When used correctly, potassium carbonate is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe substance.
Food uses for potassium carbonate
To reduce acidity in cacao powder
Adding a certain quantity of alkaline salts to cocoa powder can decrease its acidity while imparting a bitter and sour flavor.
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For making raisins
Grapes have a small film of wax covering them naturally. Their waxy coating can be eliminated by purifying the grapes with a potassium carbonate solution.
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Baking bread
Potassium carbonate is a common baking ingredient in preparing gingerbread, it can be used as an alkali and dough softener, as well as to suppress the acidity of filaments.
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To improve noodle texture
Potassium carbonate is used with sodium carbonate to enhance the color and texture of noodles, primarily in Japan. This alkaline mixture is referred to as ‘Kansui’.
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Deacidification of wine and alcoholic beverages
One of the uses of potassium bicarbonate in food is to decrease the acidity in wine.
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Health benefits of potassium carbonate
Apart from being used in the processing and preservation of foods, potassium carbonate has advantages for the body. Here are some of the health advantages:
Cardiovascular health and strong bones
Potassium carbonate is necessary for cardiovascular health, bone strength, and muscle activity. It can help prevent it by aiding in good blood pressure.
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Hypokalemia
Low potassium levels in the blood can cause health concerns, and your doctor may prescribe potassium carbonate supplements.
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Insulin sensitivity
Potassium carbonate is required for insulin production from pancreatic cells. Low potassium levels in the blood have been linked to developing resistance to insulin.
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Kidney stones
Some early research suggests that potassium carbonate and potassium citrate supplements may aid in the resolution of certain forms of kidney stones.
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Stroke
In research on women above 50, those who consumed the most potassium in their meals had a lower chance of ischemic stroke. Research on men above 40 had comparable findings.
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Negative effects of potassium carbonate
As with everything that humans consume, moderation is vital. Here are a few effects that consuming potassium carbonate in excess can cause:
Digestive issues
If ingested, potassium carbonate affects the gastrointestinal tract and causes blisters to the lips, tongue, mouth, esophagus, and stomach.
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Heartbeat irregularities (arrhythmias)
Irregular heartbeats might occur if your potassium carbonate level is too high from excess consumption. You may notice symptoms like anxiety, or chest ache.
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Muscle paralysis or weakness
While potassium assists the nerves and muscles to communicate, having too much or too little might impair muscular performance.
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Conclusion
Potassium-containing compounds like potassium carbonate are healthy for the body and can provide advantages that include better bone density and cardiovascular health.