E577: Potassium Gluconate
Main role: acidity control and metal-ion binding
Also listed as: potassium D-gluconate
What is E577 (Potassium Gluconate)?
Potassium gluconate is a potassium salt of gluconic acid used in suitable food formulation systems. It may also appear in nutrient products, but additive use and nutrient supplementation have different purposes and quantities.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity control and metal-ion binding. Acidity regulators adjust or buffer pH. The resulting acidity depends on the whole recipe, not just the presence of one acid or salt. Acidity control may also affect texture and the performance of other ingredients.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified acidity preparations
- Ingredient stabilization blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E577, E 577, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include potassium D-gluconate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
A food listing for potassium gluconate should not be read as a prescribed potassium dose. Quantified nutrient declarations provide the information needed for an intake comparison.
Is E577 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E577 as Potassium gluconate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.