Potassium malate

Potassium malate is the potassium salt of malic acid, the organic acid that gives apples and many fruits their characteristic tartness. It serves as an acidity regulator and humectant in beverages, confectionery, and fruit-flavoured products. It is particularly valued in reduced-sodium formulations where it replaces sodium malate, providing the same acidity-regulatory function while contributing potassium rather than sodium.

JECFA's ADI is "not specified," evaluated in 1973. Potassium malate dissociates to malic acid — a Krebs cycle intermediate — and potassium, a normal dietary mineral. Both are completely handled through normal metabolic pathways with no toxicological concern at any food additive dose.

Potassium malate is approved in the EU, US, and most global markets. Its use is growing in reformulated beverages and sports drinks targeting sodium reduction. The potassium content is nutritionally beneficial for most adults. People with renal impairment managing potassium intake should monitor total potassium from food additives and natural food sources. For healthy adults there are no safety concerns.