-
DE
Potassium Metabisulfite (E224) - Preservative
Potassium metabisulfite (E224) is a chemical preservative used as a food additive, antioxidant, and disinfectant in food, winemaking, and pharmaceutical industries.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Potassium metabisulfite"
Potassium metabisulfite (E224) is a chemical preservative used as a food additive, antioxidant, and disinfectant in food, winemaking, and pharmaceutical industries.
What is Potassium Metabisulfite?
Potassium metabisulfite, also known as potassium pyrosulfite and listed under the food additive code E224, is a white to yellowish crystalline powder with the chemical formula K₂S₂O₃. It belongs to the group of sulfite compounds and is widely used as a preservative, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent in the food, winemaking, brewing, and pharmaceutical industries.
Uses and Applications
Potassium metabisulfite has a wide range of applications:
- Food preservation: It inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds, thereby extending the shelf life of foods such as dried fruits, fruit juices, wine, and seafood.
- Winemaking: It is used as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent to protect wine from oxidation and microbial spoilage.
- Brewing: It is used to sanitize brewing equipment and to inhibit unwanted fermentation processes.
- Pharmaceutical industry: As an antioxidant, it helps maintain the stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients in various preparations.
- Photography and textiles: Historically, it was also used in photographic developers and textile bleaching processes.
Mechanism of Action
When dissolved in water, potassium metabisulfite releases sulfurous acid (H₂SO₃) and sulfite ions (SO₃²⁻). These compounds act through several mechanisms:
- Antimicrobial effect: Sulfite ions inhibit key metabolic enzymes in microorganisms, preventing their growth and reproduction.
- Antioxidant effect: Sulfite compounds react preferentially with oxygen, preventing the oxidation of food components and thus avoiding browning and flavor changes.
- Bleaching effect: Sulfites can decolorize certain pigments and are therefore used to lighten the color of some food products.
Safety, Risks, and Intolerances
While potassium metabisulfite is considered safe for most people when used within permitted levels, sensitive individuals may experience adverse reactions:
- Sulfite intolerance: Some individuals are hypersensitive to sulfite compounds. Symptoms can include skin irritation, headaches, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and in rare cases severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
- Asthma: People with bronchial asthma are particularly at risk, as inhaling or ingesting sulfites can trigger bronchospasm.
- Labeling requirements: Under EU food law, foods containing more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l of sulfites must be labeled with the statement "contains sulfites."
Permitted Limits and Legal Regulations
The use of potassium metabisulfite as a food additive in the European Union is regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0.7 mg per kg of body weight per day for sulfites. Permitted maximum levels vary significantly by food category, for example:
- Dried fruits: up to 2000 mg/kg
- Wine: 150 to 200 mg/l (depending on wine type)
- Fruit juices: up to 50 mg/l
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of sulfur dioxide (E 220), sodium sulfite (E 221), sodium bisulfite (E 222), sodium metabisulfite (E 223), potassium metabisulfite (E 224), calcium sulfite (E 226), calcium bisulfite (E 227) and potassium bisulfite (E 228). EFSA Journal, 2016.
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives.
- Vally H., Misso N.L., Madan V.: Clinical effects of sulphite additives. Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 2009; 39(11): 1643-1651.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
€22.90
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
€50.00
Regular price:
€59.90
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
€27.90
Regular price:
€29.90
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
€35.90
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.