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potassium bisulfite, potassium hydrogen sulfite ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepotassium bisulfite, potassium hydrogen sulfite
English namepotassium bisulfite, potassium hydrogen sulfite
INS/E numberINS 228
Functional classPreservative, Antioxidant
Year adopted1965
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Potassium bisulfite (potassium hydrogen sulfite) is the acid potassium salt of sulfur dioxide; it releases sulfite in solution and is used as a preservative and antioxidant.

Source ​

Industrial:二氧化硫气体与氢氧化钾按小于等摩尔比反应制得

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits microbial growth
  • Prevents oxidative browning and discolouration
  • Used in wine as antioxidant and antimicrobial
  • Maintains colour of dried fruits and fruit/vegetable products

Common Foods ​

  • Wine
  • Dried fruits
  • Candied fruits
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Jams

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake):0-0.7 mg/kg bw (以 SO₂ 计)

Concerns:

  • 哮喘及敏感者可能过敏
  • 破坏硫胺素(维生素B1)

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International:

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II/III (E 228)
  • FDA 21 CFR 182.3639 (Potassium bisulfite, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 228)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Potassium bisulfite)

In a nutshell ​

Potassium bisulfite is an acid potassium sulfite preservative commonly used to protect colour and freshness in wine.

Consumer Advice ​

Potassium hydrogen sulfite (also called potassium bisulfite) is a sulphite preservative and antioxidant used in winemaking, dried fruit and pickled foods to prevent oxidative browning and microbial contamination by releasing sulfur dioxide. It is safe for most people, but sulphites are a label-required allergen, so asthmatics and other sensitive individuals should avoid them. Use within legal limits is safe; choose compliant products.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

⚠️ Contains allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.