What Is Potassium Bicarbonate?
Potassium bicarbonate, denoted by the formula KHCO3, is a transparent, scentless, mildly alkaline, and saline substance.
Widely utilized in baking, it serves as a leavening agent by interacting with acidic components like vinegar, lemon juice, or cream of tartar, prompting the release of carbon dioxide gas that facilitates dough rising. It is also used in fire extinguishers as an effective fire-suppressing agent and in various industries for pH regulation, buffering, and neutralization of acids. Additionally, it has applications in agriculture as a source of potassium and as a fungicide. Potassium bicarbonate is generally recognized as safe for use in food by regulatory agencies when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
Potassium Bicarbonate VS Potassium Citrate
Both this compound and potassium citrate (K-citrate) are potassium supplements. However, they differ in their chemical structure and some physiological effects.
- Chemical Structure
Potassium Bicarbonate is a white crystalline powder made of potassium and bicarbonate.
Potassium Citrate (CAS number: 6100-05-6) is a salt made of potassium and citrate and is commonly used as an alkaline salt.
(The CAS number of the anhydrous form of potassium citrate is 866-84-2.)
- Uses
Potassium bicarbonate is commonly used to treat hypokalemia, a condition where the potassium level in the blood is too low.
In addition to treating hypokalemia, K-citrate is also commonly used to treat uric acid stones because it increases urine pH.
- Effects on Acid-Base Balance
KHCO3 provides bicarbonate, which helps neutralize acids in the body.
K-citrate has a stronger alkalinizing ability due to its citrate, which can more effectively increase urine pH.
- Bioavailability
Both can increase potassium levels in the body. However, the specific bioavailability may vary, depending on their solubility and metabolization in the body.
- Efectos secundarios
Both may cause hyperkalemia, especially in patients with impaired renal function. In addition, they may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and diarrhea.
- Interacciones medicamentosas
Potassium supplements may interact with other medications, especially those that affect potassium excretion, such as certain antihypertensive drugs.
- Comparison in Medical Research
According to one study, KHCO3 and K-citrate had a greater inhibitory effect on magnesium absorption than KCl. It suggests that different types of potassium salts have different effects on magnesium absorption.
- Formulations
Both are available in different formulations, such as tablets, capsules, or liquids.
- Applications in the Food Industry
Potassium salts are sometimes also used as food additives to increase the potassium content in food.
Potassium Bicarbonate VS Sodium Bicarbonate
Both are common compounds. They share some similarities. However, they also differ in some properties and applications due to the different cations (potassium and sodium) they contain.
- Uses
Potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) can be used as a leavening agent in food. However, it is not as widely used as sodium bicarbonate because of its bitter taste. In the pharmaceutical field, KHCO3 is used as a potassium supplement to treat hypokalemia.
Sodium bicarbonate (CAS number: 144-55-8), commonly known as baking soda, is widely used as a leavening agent, neutralizer, and pH adjuster in the food industry.
- Solubility
Compared to the two, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is more soluble in water.
- Taste
KHCO3 may have an unpleasant taste when baking, limiting its use.
- Hygroscopicity
Potassium bicarbonate is highly hygroscopic, which makes it difficult to store.
- Application Areas
In medicine, in addition to being a potassium supplement, KHCO3 can also be used as an antacid. NaHCO3 is used medically as a buffer for treating metabolic acidosis and during cardiac resuscitation.
KHCO3 can be used as a soil conditioner to reduce soil acidity and improve crop growth in agriculture. In firefighting, it is used as a dry powder fire extinguisher, mainly for Class B (flammable liquids and gases) and Class C (electrical) fires. In beverages, it can be added to bottled water to increase pH and improve taste, such as in some soda and mineral water brands. In winemaking, it is also used as a pH regulator to reduce the sourness of wine and improve flavor. In pharmaceutical preparations, in addition to being a potassium supplement, Potassium bicarbonate is also used as a component of effervescent tablets. It can react with acids to produce carbon dioxide, which helps drugs dissolve and absorb quickly.
The choice of each compound depends on the specific application and effect required. For example, if the goal is to reduce the sodium content in food, Potassium bicarbonate may be selected as a substitute for Sodium bicarbonate. However, the former may be less desirable than sodium bicarbonate in certain applications due to its hygroscopicity and taste.
Potassium Bicarbonate VS Potassium Gluconate
Potassium gluconate (K2C6H11O7) is also a potassium supplement. However, they differ in some medical uses and the food industry. (Here, we mainly discuss the basic information about potassium gluconate.)
Potassium gluconate (CAS number: 299-27-4) is an organic salt composed of two potassium ions and gluconate. It has good solubility in water. Both have higher bioavailability compared to Potassium Bicarbonate. However, Potassium gluconate may be more easily absorbed by the body.
Potassium gluconate is also used to treat hypokalemia. Also, it may have a better taste and fewer gastrointestinal side effects. It is used as a nutritional supplement in the food industry, especially in dairy products.
It is relatively stable. However, it also needs to be stored away from moisture and heat. It generally has a milder taste.
Regarding presentation, Potassium Bicarbonate can be provided in tablet or powder form. Potassium gluconate can be provided in tablet, liquid, or powder form.
Specitification Sheet Reference
Tipo | Food additives |
Apariencia | White, odorless, crystalline powder |
Pureza | ≥ 99% |
Certificaciones | Please contact us to know the details. |
Métodos de ensayo | Analytical techniques (e.g., titration, gravimetric analysis, spectroscopy) complying with regulatory requirements or industry standards |
MOQ (cantidad mínima de pedido) | 1kg |
Muestra | Disponible (10-20g/bolsa) |
Servicio OEM | Disponibles, como cápsulas, comprimidos, píldoras, etc. |
Servicio ODM | Disponible |
Marca blanca | Disponible |
Fabricación por contrato | Disponible |
General Potassium Bicarbonate Powder Production Process
- Obtain potassium carbonate and carbon dioxide.
- React potassium carbonate with carbon dioxide in water to form potassium bicarbonate.
- Concentrate solution, leading to potassium bicarbonate crystal formation.
- Remove moisture from crystals to produce potassium bicarbonate powder.
- Monitor purity and consistency throughout the process.
- Packaging the powder appropriately for storage and distribution.
Potassium Bicarbonate: Benefits, Uses, And More
Treats hypokalemia. Potassium Bicarbonate treats or prevents hypokalemia, a condition in which blood potassium levels are too low. It can lead to abnormal heart rhythms or even cardiac arrest.
Supports heart health. Potassium is a key mineral for maintaining normal heart rhythm and function.
Regulates blood pressure. Potassium supplements, including Potassium Bicarbonate, may help lower blood pressure, especially for people with high blood pressure who eat a high-sodium, low-potassium diet.
Improves bone health. Some research suggests that potassium supplements may help improve bone density and reduce bone resorption, which may benefit bone health.
Prevents kidney stones. The compound may help reduce the excretion of calcium in the urine.
Used For
- Food Industry: It is a leavening agent in baking, aiding dough rising.
- Fire Suppression: Utilized in fire extinguishers due to its effectiveness in suppressing flames.
- pH Regulation: Balances pH levels in various industrial processes, including pharmaceuticals and water treatment.
- Health: Potassium bicarbonate supplements can help maintain healthy potassium levels, supporting nerve and muscle function.
- Agriculture: Used as a source of potassium fertilizer and as a fungicide.
- Environmental: Can be employed in CO2 capture and storage processes.
Es It FDA-Approved?
Potassium bicarbonate is recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used appropriately. The FDA sets limits for over-the-counter potassium supplements, with a maximum daily dosage of 200 milliequivalents (mEq) of bicarbonate ion for individuals under 60 and 100 mEq for those over 60. However, it’s classified as a category C substance, not recommended for pregnant or planning-to-be-pregnant women.
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Preguntas frecuentes
No, they are different.
Magnesium sulfate (CAS number: 10034-99-8)is a mineral compound containing magnesium and sulfate ions that have various health benefits, including relieving muscle pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation and improving sleep, supporting body detoxification, improving blood sugar levels, and relieving certain skin conditions.
It is used in various applications, including as a leavening agent in baking, a fire suppressant, and pH regulation in industrial processes.
Potassium bicarbonate is generally safe for kidneys when used in appropriate doses.
When consumed in recommended amounts, this compound is considered safe for use in food and pharmaceuticals.