Potassium Hydrogen Sulfite E228
inorganic — Primarily synthetic.
Potassium hydrogen sulfite
CAS: 7773-03-7
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Potassium Hydrogen Sulfite?
Potassium hydrogen sulfite (potassium bisulfite) is a sulfite salt used as a preservative and antioxidant in wines, fruit juices, and dried fruits. It is part of the sulfite group (E221–E228), evaluated collectively by EFSA in 2016 with an ADI of 0.7 mg/kg body weight (as SO₂). EFSA noted that sulfite exposure from wine alone could exceed the ADI in wine-drinking adults. Mandatory allergen labeling is required in the EU when total sulfite content exceeds 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/L.
? Did You Know?
Potassium Hydrogen Sulfite isn't just a food additive — it's also used in industrial applications.
To reach the Acceptable Daily Intake limit, a 60kg adult would need to consume approximately ~4 glasses of wine (150ml) in a single day. (This is a mathematical illustration, not a safety recommendation.)
Regulatory Analysis
Potassium hydrogen sulfite (potassium bisulfite, E228) is the final member of the sulfite preservative group (E220–E228), all evaluated under a shared group ADI of 0.7 mg SO₂ equivalents/kg body weight per day, confirmed in 2016 by both JECFA and EFSA. The regulatory concern that distinguishes the sulfite group collectively is their dual profile: a well-characterized allergen risk for a small but identifiable subpopulation (sulfite-sensitive individuals, particularly asthmatics), and a thiamine (vitamin B1) destruction effect at the pH conditions where sulfites are most active, which triggered restrictions on using sulfites in foods that serve as significant dietary thiamine sources. EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 specifically prohibits use in meat products partly on nutritional grounds, alongside the allergen consideration, while permitting sulfites in wine, dried fruit, and similar low-pH products where their preservative benefit is well established.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Must be labeled when present above 10 ppm; allergen declaration required
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Must be declared on labels; sulfites ≥10 ppm require disclosure
Japan (MHLW)
Approved as designated food additive
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Produced by passing sulfur dioxide gas through a solution of potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in water treatment and as a reducing agent in chemical processes