Calcium sulfite
Learn what Calcium sulfite (E226) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Calcium sulfite?
Food additive from the category of chemical preservatives. It is a calcium salt of sulfurous acid, appearing as an unstable white powder that reacts with oxygen to form calcium sulfate. In acidic conditions, it forms sulfurous acid, which has preservative, oxidizing, and bleaching properties, but also reduces the vitamin content in food.
Why is Calcium sulfite added to food?
Calcium sulfite (E226) is a preservative commonly found in: All plant-based food products.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.7 mg/kg body weight, a dose that can easily be exceeded through cumulative consumption of products containing sulfur-derived preservatives.
Is Calcium sulfite safe?
Moderate concern
In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
Is Calcium sulfite banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium sulfite okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Calcium sulfite
- All plant-based food products
How to spot Calcium sulfite on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E226
- Calcium sulfite
Common misspellings to watch for:
- cdlcium sulfite
- calcium sulflte
- calclum sulfite
- calcium $ulfite
- calcium suliite
- calcium sulfite
- calcium sultite
- caleium sulfite
- ealcium sulfite
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to sulfites. • Not recommended for individuals with bronchial asthma or respiratory conditions. • May interfere with the absorption of vitamins B1 and B12. • Avoid high doses during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
Also known as
- cdlcium sulfite
- calcium sulflte
- calclum sulfite
- calcium $ulfite
- calcium suliite
- calcium sulfite
- calcium sultite
- caleium sulfite
- ealcium sulfite
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium sulfite? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E226 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium sulfite
- Is Calcium sulfite safe to eat?
- In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
- Is Calcium sulfite banned anywhere?
- Calcium sulfite is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium sulfite safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Calcium sulfite on a food label?
- Look for E226, Calcium sulfite in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: cdlcium sulfite, calcium sulflte, calclum sulfite.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.