Sodium sulphates

Sodium sulphates — sodium sulphate (Na₂SO₄, Glauber's salt) and sodium hydrogen sulphate (NaHSO₄) — are inorganic sodium salts with regulatory roles in food. Sodium hydrogen sulphate is used as an acidulant in dried potatoes, certain wine production applications, and as a colour-retention agent. Sodium sulphate itself is less commonly used in food but appears as a carrier and diluent for food colours and flavours.

JECFA's ADI is "not specified," evaluated in 1965. Sodium sulphates are metabolised to sodium and sulphate ions — normal dietary constituents. Sulphate is a normal product of amino acid metabolism and is routinely excreted in urine. No adverse effects have been identified at any realistic dietary exposure from food additive use.

Sodium sulphates are approved in the EU and most global markets. They contribute modestly to dietary sodium intake, relevant for sodium-restricted individuals. Their use is relatively specialised and they are not encountered in the broad range of everyday packaged foods. For healthy adults there are no safety concerns beyond the general sodium content consideration.