E224: Potassium Metabisulfite (Campden Salt) vs. E334: L-Tartaric Acid (Wine & Baking Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
E224 (Potassium Metabisulfite / K2S2O5) is a white crystalline powder releasing 57.6% sulfur dioxide by weight when dissolved in acidic liquids. INS 224, ADI is 0.7 mg/kg bw/day, the premier sanitizing and stabilizing agent in commercial winemaking.
E334 (L(+)-Tartaric Acid) is a dicarboxylic organic acid recovered as potassium bitartrate by-product from wine barrels. INS 334, ADI has historically been set at up to 20 mg/kg bw/day by JECFA, delivering a sharp, lingering tartness in candies, soft drinks, and baking powders.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E224 | E334 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 224 | INS 334 |
|
Functional Class
|
Preservative, Antioxidant, Sanitizer | Acidity Regulator, Acidulant, Synergist for Antioxidants |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
0.7 mg / kg body weight per day (as SO2 equivalent) | Historically up to 20 mg / kg body weight per day (JECFA: 0–6 mg/kg unconditional + 6–20 mg/kg conditional acceptance) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
K2S2O5 | C4H6O6 (2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
Releases free SO2 and potassium ions, neutralizing wild yeasts and preventing enzymatic must oxidation | Stronger sourness profile than citric acid (pKa1 2.98), stimulating salivation and activating baking soda |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Grape must, commercial wines, ciders, lemon juice concentrates, dried fruit processing | Hard sour candies, baking powder (Cream of tartar), grape beverages, wine adjustment |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan, Halal, Kosher (Allergen labeling required) | 100% Vegan (Wine by-product), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3637) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1099) |