káliumszulfitok

Káliumszulfitok refers to a group of chemical compounds that are salts of sulfurous acid with potassium. The most common form is potassium sulfite, with the chemical formula K2SO3. Other related compounds include potassium bisulfite (potassium hydrogen sulfite), KHSO3. These compounds are typically white, crystalline solids that are soluble in water.

Potassium sulfite and bisulfite have various industrial and commercial applications. They are often used as reducing agents in chemical synthesis. In the food industry, potassium bisulfite (E225) is employed as a preservative and antioxidant, preventing spoilage and discoloration in certain food products. It can also be found in some wines and dried fruits to inhibit microbial growth and enzymatic browning.

In photography, sulfites have historically been used as developing agents. They also find use in certain water treatment processes and in the manufacture of paper. Due to their reducing properties, they can be used to remove dissolved oxygen from water.

Handling of potassium sulfites and bisulfites requires some care. They can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. When exposed to acids, they release sulfur dioxide gas, which is also an irritant and has a pungent odor. The safe use of these compounds, particularly in food applications, is regulated by food safety authorities.