Alum
Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary
Alum is a other — Styptic; hardens gelatin; used in packaging
Also: Potash Alum, Aluminum Ammonium Potassium Sulfate
What it does
Styptic; hardens gelatin; used in packaging
Where you'll see it
Packaging materials; previously food applications
What the research says
Has produced gum damage and fatal intestinal hemorrhages. Low toxicity experimentally but ingestion of 30 grams has killed an adult. In concentrated solutions causes kidney and gum damage.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: NUL
- Notes: GRAS when used in packaging only
Sources
- A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): ingestion of 30 grams (an ounce) has killed an adult human