Potassium Iodate (E917)
| Type of additive (Glossary) | Leavening Agents Oxidizin |
| E Number | E917 |
| Chemical Formula | KIO3 |
| Also Known As | Iodic acid Potassium salt |
Purpose and Function
Potassium iodate is a food additive and oxidizing agent with the chemical name INS 917. It’s used to iodize salt and as a dough conditioner in bread and rolls.
- Iodizing salt: Prevents iodine deficiency by adding iodine to table salt
- Dough conditioner: Strengthens bread and rolls
- Maturing agent: Used in food processing
- Baby formula: Provides iodine in some baby formulas
- Arsenic and zinc analysis: Used to test for arsenic and zinc
- Medicine manufacturing: Used in iodometry
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- Potassium iodate is an oxidizing agent and can cause fires if it comes into contact with flammable materials
- It’s not well tested and may pose a slight cancer risk