Potassium iodide
Other names: Potassium iodide, E917, Potassium iodide
Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)
Potassium iodide, also known as Potassium iodide, E917, or Kalium iodide, is a chemical used in food, medicine, and industry. It is a white, odourless crystalline substance that is highly soluble in water. It has a specific bitter taste.
In the food industry, potassium iodide, referred to as E917, is used as a stabiliser, emulsifier, thickener and acidity regulator. It is a component of some baked goods, cheeses, dairy products and even powdered soups. It can also be found in some mineral waters. Potassium iodide is also added to salt to make it iodized, which is important for proper thyroid function. In the pharmaceutical industry, potassium iodide is used in the manufacture of drugs to treat diseases associated with iodine deficiency in the body, such as some forms of hypothyroidism. In the construction industry, potassium iodide is a component of some mixtures used to protect concrete from frost. In the event of nuclear accidents, potassium iodide is distributed to the population as a preventive measure against the absorption of radioactive iodine.