Potassium Bromate
Also known as: Potassium bromate(V), Bromic acid, potassium salt
Leavening AgentsOxidizing Agents
Safety rating
Avoid
Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
Purpose and Function
Potassium Bromate is used as an improving agent in baking, strengthening gluten networks and improving the elasticity, texture, and volume of bread and rolls. Due to safety concerns, it is banned or heavily restricted in most countries.
Commonly found in
- —Historically: bread and rolls (banned/restricted in most countries)
Key functions
- —Strengthens gluten networks
- —Improves texture and volume of baked goods
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- 01Classified as a genotoxic carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
- 02Shown to cause tumors in laboratory animals and may pose similar risks to humans
- 03Residual bromate can convert into potentially harmful compounds during baking
- 04Banned in the EU, Canada, and several other countries