What is Potassium Iodate?
Potassium iodate is a stable source of the essential trace element iodine and is one of the most widely used forms for salt iodization worldwide. Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3, T4); deficiency leads to goiter, hypothyroidism, and developmental disorders. The WHO and the Food Code support the use of iodate for salt iodization.
- Molecular formula: KIO₃
- CAS number: 7758-05-6
- Form: Powder / Inorganic Iodine Salt
- Quality: Food / Pharmaceutical Grade
- Potassium iodate (KIO3) contains ~%59.3 elemental iodine (100 mg KIO3 ~59 mg I). It is more stable against moisture, heat, and light compared to potassium iodide (KI) and is preferred for salt iodization in hot/humid climates.
What is Potassium Iodate Used For? Why is it Used?
Potassium iodate is a stable and high-iodine-containing form, making it a preferred iodine source for both salt iodization and multivitamin-mineral supplements. It is positioned by EFSA for thyroid function and hormone production, as well as cognitive and nervous system functions; its resistance to moisture and heat ensures a long shelf life.
Main areas of use: Dietary Supplements, Iodized Salt, Vegetable Concentrates, Rubber Production, Pharmaceutical Drugs, Dietary Supplements.
Usage in Dietary Supplements
- Iodine source in multivitamin-mineral premixes: Used to provide iodine at the NRV (150 µg) level in multivitamin-mineral supplements and premixes; its stability is advantageous for tablet shelf life.
- Pregnancy/lactation supplements: Serves as an iodine source in supplements for pregnancy and lactation periods when iodine needs increase (important for thyroid and neurological development).
- Stable form advantage: More resistant to oxidation, moisture, and heat than the iodide (KI) form, making iodate practical for long-shelf-life supplements and premixes.
- Low and controlled dosage: Iodine has a narrow safety range; supplements are typically dosed around 150 µg, and total intake is kept within the UL (600 µg/day).
Usage in the Food Industry
- Salt iodization (WHO / Food Code): The main iodine source supported by the WHO and Codex Alimentarius for universal salt iodization; it preserves iodine content better than iodide under moisture and heat.
- Fortification premixes: Used as an iodine source in food fortification premixes and double-fortified salt (iodine + iron).
- Iodized table salt in Turkey: Iodization of table salt in Turkey is regulated under the Turkish Food Code; the use of potassium iodate for iodization is common due to its stability.
Effects on Health
Iodine is a mineral that plays a role in many fundamental functions in the body. The main functions authorized/evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
- Thyroid hormone production and thyroid function: Iodine contributes to the production of normal thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function (EFSA).
- Cognitive function: Iodine contributes to normal cognitive function (EFSA).
- Nervous system: Iodine contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system (EFSA).
- Energy metabolism: Iodine contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism (EFSA).
- Protection of skin: Iodine contributes to the normal protection of the skin (EFSA).
Usage Limits in Dietary Supplements
- Nutrient Reference Value (NRV): Iodine NRV is 150 µg (1169/2011).
- Tolerable Upper Intake Level (EFSA): EFSA has set the UL for iodine for adults at 600 µg/day (lower for children depending on age).
- Turkish legislation (TETGK): Iodine is permitted under the Turkish Dietary Supplements Regulation; table salt iodization is regulated in the Turkish Food Code. The current guideline should be followed for the maximum permitted amount in supplements (not fabricated).
Both iodine deficiency and excess can disrupt thyroid function; total intake (salt + food + supplements) must be kept within the UL.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Iodine Content | 59 - 60 % |
| Appearance | White Powder |
| Moisture | ≤5.0 % |
| Solubility | Soluble in Water |
Scientific Studies
The following independent studies relate to the bioavailability, usage, and effects of this mineral (evidence levels are indicated):
- PubMed 25591468 — Review examining iodine deficiency and thyroid disorders.
- PubMed 13329845 — Study investigating the stability of potassium iodate in raw table salt.
- PubMed 32458745 — Study evaluating the health and economic benefits of universal salt iodization programs.
Technical Documents and Supply — Asuka Kimya
You can contact Asuka Kimya for SDS, TDS, CoA, and supply conditions for Potassium Iodate.
References
- efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
- ods.od.nih.gov
- who.int
- eur-lex.europa.eu
- pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
The usage and health information on this page is compiled from official legislation/institution sources (EFSA, NIH ODS, Turkish Food Code, EUR-Lex) and independent scientific publications (PubMed). The product is a food supplement/food raw material and is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of disease.