Potassium metabisulfite
Learn what Potassium metabisulfite (E224) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Potassium metabisulfite?
Food additive from the category of chemical preservatives. It is a potassium salt of sulfurous acid, appearing as an unstable white powder that reacts with oxygen to form potassium sulfate. In acidic conditions, it forms sulfurous acid, which has preservative, oxidizing, and bleaching properties, but also reduces the vitamin content in food.
Why is Potassium metabisulfite added to food?
Potassium metabisulfite (E224) is a preservative commonly found in: All plant-based food products.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.7 mg/kg body weight, a dose that can easily be exceeded through cumulative consumption of products containing sulfur-derived preservatives.
Is Potassium metabisulfite safe?
Moderate concern
In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
Is Potassium metabisulfite banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium metabisulfite okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Potassium metabisulfite
- All plant-based food products
See the full list of foods that contain Potassium metabisulfite →
How to spot Potassium metabisulfite on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E224
- Potassium metabisulfite
Common misspellings to watch for:
- potassium metabisultite
- potassium metdbisulfite
- potassium metabisulflte
- dotassium metabisulfite
- pota$sium metabisulfite
- potasslum metabisulfite
- potassium metabisulfite
- potassium metabi$ulfite
- potassium metablsulfite
- potassium metabisuliite
- potas$ium metabisulfite
- potdssium metabisulfite
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to sulfites. • Not recommended for individuals with bronchial asthma or respiratory conditions. • Individuals with a deficiency in glycosylase should avoid consumption. • Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • Avoid high doses in individuals with cardiovascular or kidney conditions.
Also known as
- potassium metabisultite
- potassium metdbisulfite
- potassium metabisulflte
- dotassium metabisulfite
- pota$sium metabisulfite
- potasslum metabisulfite
- potassium metabisulfite
- potassium metabi$ulfite
- potassium metablsulfite
- potassium metabisuliite
- potas$ium metabisulfite
- potdssium metabisulfite
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Potassium metabisulfite? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E224 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Potassium metabisulfite
- Is Potassium metabisulfite safe to eat?
- In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
- Is Potassium metabisulfite banned anywhere?
- Potassium metabisulfite is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Potassium metabisulfite safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Potassium metabisulfite on a food label?
- Look for E224, Potassium metabisulfite in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: potassium metabisultite, potassium metdbisulfite, potassium metabisulflte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.