Food-Info.net> E-numbers > E200-300

225: Potassium sulphite

Origin:
Potassium salt of sulphurous acid.

Function & characteristics:
It is a white non-stable powder, which reacts with oxygen to potassium sulphate. In acidic conditions it forms sulphurous acid, which acts as a preservative. It is used as a preservative and may be used as a bleaching agent in sugar production. It is used for the production of sulphite-caramel (E150d)

Products:
beer

Acceptable Daily intake:
Up to 0.7 mg/kg body weight.

Side effects :
Due to its oxidising effect, it may reduce the vitamin content in products. It is reduced in the liver to harmless sulphate and excreted in the urine.

People who are intolerant towards natural sulphites should also avoid added sulphites (E221-228).

Dietary restrictions :
None, sulphur dioxide and sulphites can be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.