Potassium Metabisulphite (E224) — What You Need to Know
The score is an eNumbers.org editorial summary, not an official agency rating or medical advice. Start with the regulatory status and primary sources below.
What Is Potassium Metabisulphite?
Potassium metabisulphite is the potassium equivalent of sodium metabisulphite, widely used in winemaking and brewing as both a preservative and antioxidant. It releases sulphur dioxide (SO2) when dissolved in water, providing effective antimicrobial protection. It is often preferred over the sodium version in wine production due to the lower sodium content.
What Is It Used For?
Primarily used in winemaking and brewing to sterilize equipment, prevent oxidation, and inhibit wild yeast and bacterial growth. Also used in the preservation of dried fruits, cider, and fruit preparations.
Regulatory & Editorial Context
Potassium equivalent of sodium metabisulphite. Commonly used in winemaking as both antioxidant and antimicrobial. Same group ADI and same sulphite sensitivity concerns. Often preferred over sodium version in wine production. EFSA 2016 assessment applies to all sulphites collectively.
eNumbers.org currently assigns Potassium Metabisulphite an editorial context label of Caution with a score of 5/10. This is 0.7 points below the database average for preservatives (5.7/10). Dataset reference year: 2016.
This score is not issued by EFSA, FDA, WHO or another regulator.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E224 or 'Potassium Metabisulphite'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Potassium Metabisulphite
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E224
- INS Number
- 224
- Category
- Preservatives
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Authorized — group ADI as SO2 for all sulphites (E220–E228)
- ADI
- 0.7 mg/kg bw/day
- Dataset Review
- 2016
Carriers, processing aids and product certification can change suitability. Verify the final label and certifier.
Quick Links
Related Additives
Other preservatives in the same family