Sodium acetate acts as an acidity regulator and preservative in various foods. The additive is considered harmless. We’ll show you where it usually occurs.
On many toast ingredient lists you’ll find this entry: “Acidity regulators: sodium acetates.” Behind this are the sodium salts of acetic acid. Strictly speaking, there is sodium acetate and sodium diacetate, but sodium acetate is often spoken of in general.
Sodium acetates have various effects in food:
The additives reduce the sour taste in acidic foods.
In addition, the pH value (i.e. the degree of acidity) of food and medicines can be controlled and stabilized via sodium acetate. Hence the name “acidity regulator”.
Sodium acetates preserve baked goods. They could theoretically also be listed as preservatives.
Sodium acetates can be produced from acetic acid by simple chemical reactions. At room temperature they form a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water.
Sodium acetates in food
Accordingly, sodium acetate (E 262) is permitted in almost all foods without restrictions. Unrestricted means here: Manufacturers can use as much as they need for the desired effect. In Latin it means “quantum satis”. There are only a few exceptions, such as organic food. These must not contain sodium acetate.
You can find sodium acetate in these foods:
canned vegetables
canned fish
Mozzarella and whey cheese (e.g. ricotta)
Baked goods (e.g. toast or white bread)
Baby food
Are sodium acetates harmful?
As reported by the consumer initiative, sodium acetate is considered harmless. There is no recommended maximum daily intake.
Some experts are fundamentally critical of the approximately 150 additives permitted in baked goods – for example, they can have a negative impact on the intestinal flora. However, it is unclear whether the statement also applies to sodium acetate. However, it is possible that the EU will reassess sodium acetate in the future.
If you want to avoid sodium acetate, go for organic foods. You also avoid other additives and synthetic pesticides, and you also support sustainable agriculture.
