The Lab
Specimen No. 0068
AvoidSyntheticfood additive

Potassium Bromate

potassium bromate · e924 · bromate

Flour bleaching and conditioning agent. Banned in the EU, UK, Canada, Brazil, and most countries — but still legal in the US. IARC classifies it as a Group 2B possible carcinogen.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • IARC Group 2B possible carcinogen — causes tumors in rats
  • Banned in EU, UK, Canada, China, India, Brazil
  • FDA has asked bakers to voluntarily stop using it — but has not banned it
  • Bromate residue detected in finished baked goods (trace levels)

Regulatory flags

  • Banned as food additive in EU, UK, Canada, Japan, Australia
  • IARC Group 2B possible carcinogen
  • FDA still permits in US flour; actively under review

Commonly found in

White breadRollsBagelsFlour tortillasPizza dough (US only)

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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LabelCleared verdict badge: Potassium Bromate — Avoid
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