Ingredient · E224

Potassium Metabisulfate

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Potassium metabisulfite is used as a preservative and antioxidant in foods. It helps prevent …

What it is

Potassium metabisulfite is a white crystalline powder with a sulfurous odor. It is a salt formed from potassium and sulfur dioxide. It is produced industrially by reacting potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide with sulfur dioxide.

Why it's used

Potassium metabisulfite is used as a preservative and antioxidant in foods. It helps prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, and it also prevents browning in fruits and vegetables. It is commonly found in dried fruits, wines, and processed potatoes.

Health notes

Potassium metabisulfite is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a preservative. It can cause allergic-type reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated potassium metabisulfite and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence regarding its effects at typical intake levels is mixed, with some studies suggesting potential benefits and others raising concerns.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Potassium Metabisulfate

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Five Cheese & Marmalade With Asiago, Provolone, Italian Buffalo Mozzarella, Edam, Cheddar Thin Crust Pizza, Five Cheese & Marmalade The Kroger Co. Five Cheese & Marmalade With Asiago, Provolone, Italian Buffalo Mozzarella, Edam, Cheddar Thin Crust Pizza, Five Cheese & Marmalade Pizza High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 303kcal 12.3Protein 13.1Fat 31.1Carbs Mid-South Sales, LLC White Meat Chicken Salad, White Meat Deli Salads High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 190kcal 12Protein 9Fat 16Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Chicken Salad On Croissant Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 33% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 237kcal 12.1Protein 10.1Fat 23.2Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Marketside, Premium Chicken Salad Deli Salads High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 190kcal 12Protein 9Fat 16Carbs Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Traditional Gourmet Portabella Mushrooms Other Deli 71kcal 7.1Protein 2.2Fat 8.0Carbs Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Stuffed Mushrooms Other Deli 88kcal 7.0Protein 3.5Fat 7.0Carbs Hoboken Eddie's LLC. Hukilau Hannah A Teriyaki & Ginger Sauce Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces 167kcal 3.3Protein 0Fat 46.7Carbs Hoboken Eddie's LLC. Asian BBQ A Sweet Non-Smokey Finishing Sauce, Asian BBQ Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 200kcal 0Protein 0Fat 46.7Carbs Rafael Padilla & Cia S. En C. Lobster Bisque, Lobster Canned Soup High in sodium — 35% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 75% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 34% DV per serving —kcal 4.3Protein 11.4Fat 6.7Carbs Family Dollar Stores Inc. Hot! Jalapeno Slices, Hot! Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 50kcal 3.3Protein 0Fat 10Carbs Kung Pao Shrimp Great American Seafood Imports Co. Kung Pao Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in sodium — 62% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 28% DV per serving 110kcal 7.0Protein 5.3Fat 9.7Carbs
Salt (11 products) Water (11 products) Sugar (10 products) Citric Acid (7 products) Vinegar (6 products) Potassium Sorbate (5 products) Garlic (5 products) Natural Flavors (5 products) Molasses (4 products) Ascorbic Acid (4 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.