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Additives

Copper(II) Sulphate (E519): What It Is and Is It Safe?

Limited risk Mineral Salt / Stabiliser

Copper sulphate (CuSO4) authorised in strictly limited quantities. Copper is an essential trace mineral required for enzyme function, iron metabolism, and connective tissue formation. At permitted food-additive levels, exposure is negligible. However, at higher doses copper sulphate is toxic, causing nausea, vomiting, hepatic damage, and haemolytic anaemia. Use is tightly restricted and regulated.

Category
Mineral Salt / Stabiliser
Typically used in
Trace use in processing of some preserved vegetables, certain mineral supplements, water treatment
Regulatory status
Approved EU/USA/UK in strictly limited quantities only. Essential at trace levels; toxic in excess.
Concerns flagged
Digestive upsetLiver effects

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Sources

Where this comes from

  1. EFSA (2015) — Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of copper -II- sulphate -E 519- as a food additive https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2015.4098
Products

Products containing Copper(II) Sulphate

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