Comparing E202 - Potassium sorbate vs E223 - Sodium metabisulphite
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Found in 23,547 products
Found in 2,840 products
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Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 5 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is potassium sorbate bad for you?
Generally no; potassium sorbate (E202) is a low-toxicity preservative approved by major regulators, though high concentrations can irritate and rare sensitivities occur.
Is potassium sorbate safe?
Yes—it's considered safe at permitted food levels by authorities like FDA, EFSA, and JECFA; occasional mild sensitivities have been reported.
How much potassium sorbate per gallon of mead?
Typically about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L) to inhibit refermentation; add after fermentation is complete and alongside sulfite.
How much potassium sorbate per gallon of wine?
Commonly about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L); use with sulfite and check any local limits on sorbate levels.
Is potassium sorbate gluten free?
Yes—it's a synthetic preservative and contains no gluten, so it's suitable for people with celiac disease.
Is sodium metabisulfite bad for you?
For most people it isn’t “bad” at the low levels used in foods, but sulfite‑sensitive individuals (including some asthmatics) can have reactions such as wheezing, hives, or headaches. Regulators set a group ADI for sulfites of 0–0.7 mg SO2 equivalents per kg body weight per day.
Is sodium metabisulfite safe?
Yes—E223 is an approved preservative/antioxidant when used within regulated limits, though sulfites must be declared on labels and can trigger adverse reactions in sensitive people and some asthmatics.
Is sodium metabisulfite gluten free?
Yes. It’s a synthetic inorganic salt and contains no gluten; any gluten risk would come from other ingredients or cross-contact, not the additive itself.
What is sodium metabisulfite used for?
It’s used as an antioxidant and preservative to prevent browning and microbial spoilage in foods and drinks (e.g., wine, cider, dried fruits, seafood, potato products), and as a sanitizing agent for winemaking/brewing equipment.
How much sodium metabisulfite per gallon of wine?
To add about 50 mg/L (ppm) SO2 to 1 US gallon, use roughly 0.28 g sodium metabisulfite (about half a sodium Campden tablet); winemakers typically target 25–50 ppm free SO2 depending on pH and often use potassium metabisulfite instead.