Pumpkin

Additive

Potassium bromate

Dough strengthener added to some flour so bread rises higher.

Moderate concern · Moderate evidence

Classified as a possible human carcinogen from animal studies; not permitted in the EU, UK, or Canada.

Consider limiting, or compare alternatives.

Reviewed Oct 2, 2026

Evidence and sources

IARC classifies potassium bromate as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) based on tumors in rats. It isn't permitted in foods in the EU, UK, or Canada, and California will prohibit it in food starting in 2027. FDA permits it in flour and has encouraged bakers to stop using it.

Bromate is meant to break down during baking, but some can remain. The amount here isn't declared.

Moderate evidence · Presence only; amount unknown · General population

  1. IARC Monographs Volume 73: potassium bromate (Group 2B), International Agency for Research on Cancer
  2. California Food Safety Act (AB 418), State of California