Sodium sulfite
Learn what Sodium sulfite (E221) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sodium sulfite?
Food additive from the category of chemical preservatives. It is a sodium salt of sulfurous acid, appearing as an unstable white powder that reacts with oxygen to form sulfate. In acidic conditions, it forms sulfurous acid, which has preservative, oxidizing, and bleaching properties, but also reduces the vitamin content in food. Inappropriately (illegally), this preservative can be used to mask bacterial degradation of meat.
Why is Sodium sulfite added to food?
Sodium sulfite (E221) 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 Sodium sulfite safe?
Moderate concern
In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues. When combined with alcohol, it can worsen hangover symptoms.
Is Sodium sulfite banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium sulfite okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium sulfite
- All plant-based food products
How to spot Sodium sulfite on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E221
- Sodium sulfite
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium sulfite
- sodium sultite
- sodium sulflte
- sodium suliite
- sodlum sulfite
- sodium $ulfite
- $odium sulfite
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to sulfites. • Not recommended for individuals with bronchial asthma or other respiratory conditions. • Individuals with a deficiency in glycosylase should avoid consumption. • Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • May interfere with the absorption of vitamins B1 and B12.
Also known as
- sodium sulfite
- sodium sultite
- sodium sulflte
- sodium suliite
- sodlum sulfite
- sodium $ulfite
- $odium sulfite
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium sulfite? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E221 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium sulfite
- Is Sodium sulfite safe to eat?
- In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues. When combined with alcohol, it can worsen hangover symptoms.
- Is Sodium sulfite banned anywhere?
- Sodium sulfite is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium sulfite safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium sulfite on a food label?
- Look for E221, Sodium sulfite in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium sulfite, sodium sultite, sodium sulflte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.