E517: Ammonium sulphate

What is E517?

E517 is ammonium sulphate, a simple inorganic salt of ammonia and sulphuric acid. It forms colourless to white crystals that dissolve readily in water and supply both nitrogen and sulphate.

Origin and production

Ammonium sulphate is produced industrially by reacting ammonia with sulphuric acid, and it is also obtained as a by-product of other chemical processes. Food-grade material is purified to meet specific standards.

Why is it used?

In baking, ammonium sulphate serves mainly as a yeast nutrient and dough conditioner, giving yeast an easily usable source of nitrogen so that dough rises reliably. It is therefore typically found in industrial breads, burger buns, pizza bases, sandwiches and frozen bakery products.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

E517 is a mineral salt produced without animal materials, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher concerns.

Safety and regulation

Ammonium sulphate appears on the list of permitted food additives in the European Union and other jurisdictions, with uses limited to specific purposes. In the United States it is generally recognised as safe for use as a dough conditioner within good manufacturing practice.

Common in