Persulfates are salts derived from peroxodisulfuric acid and rank as powerful oxidizers. Ammonium and potassium persulfate are approved food additives in some countries: the ammonium salt works in bakeries, including starch bleaching and certain preservative uses, while potassium persulfate functions in defoaming agents. They are also called peroxosulfates or peroxodisulfates. In processing, their oxidative strength requires careful dosing within legal limits to avoid quality or safety issues. Approval status differs by jurisdiction, so manufacturers confirm local regulations before use. Persulfates show how industrial oxidants can earn tightly controlled roles as food processing aids.