E527 - Ammonium Hydroxide

Characteristics of ammonium hydroxide

The additive E 527 is used in the food industry as an emulsifier and acidity regulator. It is known as ammonium hydroxide . It is used to protect food from bacteria and pathogens that cause foodborne illness. E 527 has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a supplement. It is a colorless, clear liquid with a sharp to faint characteristic odor of ammonia. It has good solubility in water. It is obtained from synthetic raw materials, namely ammonia water, obtained by the interaction of coke oven gas with water, which is converted into condensate during gas cooling.

Use of supply E 527

The main purpose of the food supplement is to regulate the acidity. E 527 is used as a preservative in the preparation of cocoa products, caramels, chocolate, cheese, yogurt, donuts, cakes, biscuits and meat. Although it does not add any taste to the products, the additive prevents their contamination with potentially harmful bacteria and pathogens. Studies show that ammonia hydroxide is useful in fighting the bacterium E. coli, which is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. The additive directly attacks the bacteria, preventing its reproduction and spread. It is most often used as a liquid fertilizer in the production of detergents and in pharmaceuticals.

Impact on humans

E527 poses a major health hazard if used in large quantities in the manufacture of products. The additive is banned in some countries (Austria, Great Britain, New Zealand). Eye contact may result in conjunctival and corneal ulcers, eye burns and temporary loss of vision. Ammonium hydroxide irritates the skin, contact with it can lead to severe irritation and burns. Ingestion may cause vomiting, nausea, stomach irritation and in some cases perforation affecting the central nervous system, depression, shock, convulsions and pulmonary edema.

Inhalation of small amounts of ammonium hydroxide may cause nasal irritation (sneezing, coughing). Exposure to high concentrations may cause pulmonary edema, shock, convulsions, cyanosis or depression. Chronic exposure can cause bronchitis, conjunctivitis or dermatitis.

Do not wear contact lenses when working with ammonium hydroxide. Use safety goggles to prevent splashes. Use suitable gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact, and in case of contact with eyes, wash immediately under running water.

If the concentration of ammonium hydroxide in the air is 300 ppm or higher, wear a respirator covering the entire face.

Store the additive in closed, glass or plastic containers, protected from heat and incompatible substances, which should be washed thoroughly after handling. Avoid inhaling dust, fumes, vapors or gases from the substance.

Ammonium hydroxide is not a flammable liquid, but ammonia gas is flammable and irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Use dry chemicals, carbon dioxide, water sprays or alcohol-resistant defoamers to extinguish small fires. Wear suitable protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.