Sulfur dioxide
Learn what Sulfur dioxide (E220) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sulfur dioxide?
Food additive from the category of natural preservatives, used since ancient times in the Roman Empire and Ancient Egypt. It is a colorless gas obtained by burning sulfur. This gas dissolves in the aqueous phase of the food being preserved and forms a reactive agent, provided the food has an acidic pH (below 7). This prevents enzymatic and bacterial degradation. Being an oxidant, it is also used as a bleaching agent for flour, but in general, it modifies (oxidizes) the natural color of food and reduces the vitamin content in them. By heating the food, the additive is eliminated as a gas. When ingested, it breaks down in the liver into harmless sulfates and is excreted through urine.
Why is Sulfur dioxide added to food?
Sulfur dioxide (E220) is a preservative commonly found in: Flour-based products, plant-based 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 Sulfur dioxide safe?
Moderate concern
In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
Is Sulfur dioxide banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sulfur dioxide okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sulfur dioxide
- Flour-based products
- plant-based products
How to spot Sulfur dioxide on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E220
- Sulfur dioxide
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sultur dioxide
- suliur dioxide
- sulfur dloxide
- sulfur dioxlde
- $ulfur dioxide
- sulfur dioxide
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to sulfites. • Not recommended for individuals with bronchial asthma, respiratory conditions, or lung problems. • Avoid use in individuals with a glycosylase deficiency. • Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • May cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract in large amounts.
Also known as
- sultur dioxide
- suliur dioxide
- sulfur dloxide
- sulfur dioxlde
- $ulfur dioxide
- sulfur dioxide
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sulfur dioxide? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E220 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sulfur dioxide
- Is Sulfur dioxide safe to eat?
- In asthmatic individuals, it may cause respiratory issues.
- Is Sulfur dioxide banned anywhere?
- Sulfur dioxide is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sulfur dioxide safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sulfur dioxide on a food label?
- Look for E220, Sulfur dioxide in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sultur dioxide, suliur dioxide, sulfur dloxide.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.