Copper sulphate
A copper salt that is toxic in excess; copper accumulates in the liver.
- Category
- Firming agents
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Copper sulphate is a copper salt used as a mineral source and processing aid, in tightly limited amounts.
How it is used in food
Historically used to extend shelf life or improve texture before modern safety evaluations.
Commonly found in- Pickled vegetables (historical)
- Candied fruits
Health and safety
Excess copper causes nausea and vomiting acutely, and accumulates in the liver with chronic intake. People with Wilson's disease cannot clear it.
Evaluated by food safety authorities and determined to be unsafe for general food use.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E519
Also printed asCopper sulfate
Worth knowing
Copper is an essential trace element, but the gap between what you need and what harms you is narrower than for most minerals — which is why the permitted amounts are so small.
Conclusion
A highly toxic, banned heavy metal salt.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-08-05.
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