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sulfur dioxide ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namesulfur dioxide
English namesulfur dioxide
INS/E numberINS 220
Functional classPreservative, Antioxidant
Year adopted1965
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Sulfur dioxide is an inorganic sulfur gas used as a preservative and antioxidant in foods, inhibiting microbial growth and preventing browning.

Source ​

Industrial：燃烧硫磺或硫化矿焙烧制得二氧化硫气体，再经吸收纯化

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits growth of moulds and yeasts
  • Prevents oxidative browning and discoloration
  • Preserves colour and flavour of dried fruits and wine
  • Acts as a bleaching agent (e.g. dried fruits)

Common Foods ​

  • Dried fruits (raisins, apricots)
  • Wine and fruit wines
  • Jams and jellies
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Fruit juices
  • Glacé cherries

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.7 mg/kg bw (以 SO₂ 计)

Concerns：

  • 哮喘及亚硫酸盐敏感者可能过敏
  • 会破坏食品中的硫胺素（维生素B1）
  • 残留以 SO₂ 计需符合限量

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II/III (E 220)
  • Directive 2000/13/EC 规定含量>10 mg/kg 须标注“亚硫酸盐”
  • FDA 21 CFR 182.3739 (Sulfur dioxide, GRAS)
  • FDA 21 CFR 101.22 规定须标注亚硫酸盐
  • Codex GSFA (INS 220)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Sulfur dioxide)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.7 mg/kg bw, as SO₂)

In a nutshell ​

Sulfur dioxide is an effective preservative and antioxidant, but sensitive individuals should be cautious.

Consumer Advice ​

Sulfur dioxide is a gas used as a preservative and antioxidant in wine, dried fruit, dried vegetables, candied fruit and juices to stop microbial growth and browning; it remains in food mainly as sulphites. It is safe for most people, but sulphites are a recognised allergen that can trigger reactions such as asthma attacks in sensitive individuals, so regulations worldwide require labelling when levels exceed thresholds such as 10 mg/kg in the EU. People with asthma or known sulphite sensitivity should check labels carefully. High intakes may cause headache and nausea.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

⚠️ Contains allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.