sodium metabisulfite
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 焦亚硫酸钠 |
| English name | sodium metabisulfite |
| INS/E number | INS 223 |
| Functional class | Preservative, Antioxidant, Bleaching agent |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
sodium metabisulfite (INS 223) is a Preservative, Antioxidant, Flour treatment agent food additive. Used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, moulds) and extend shelf life.Used to slow or prevent oxidative deterioration, discolouration and rancidity.Used to improve baking quality of flour, e.g. bleaching and strengthening gluten.
Source
Natural：Some occur naturally in foods or are produced by microbial fermentation (e.g. lactic acid, natamycin).Some occur naturally in plants and animals (e.g. vitamin C, vitamin E, tea polyphenols).E.g. ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as an improver.
Industrial：Most are produced synthetically from the corresponding acids, salts or esters (e.g. benzoates, sorbates, nitrites).Some are synthesised or purified (e.g. ascorbyl palmitate, TBHQ).Includes synthetic improvers such as benzoyl peroxide, azodicarbonamide.
Why is it used?
- Inhibit moulds, yeasts and bacteria
- Extend shelf life
- Reduce spoilage and foodborne risks
- Delay fat oxidation/rancidity
- Preserve colour and flavour
- Protect oxidisable nutrients
- Improve baking performance
- Bleach flour
- Strengthen gluten network
Common Foods
- Cured meat
- Beverages
- Jams
- Pickled foods
- Bakery
- Edible oils
- Fat-based products
- Meat products
- Nuts
- Snack foods
- Wheat flour
- Bakery ingredients
Safety
Approved by multiple authorities within permitted limits; excessive intake may pose health risks, so maximum use levels must be strictly observed.Most are nutrients or generally recognised as safe within permitted use; some synthetic antioxidants have scope restrictions.All evaluated with restricted scope and residues; some are banned in certain regions.
Metabolism：Metabolic pathways vary by substance; generally the material is metabolised or excreted normally.
Concerns：
- Use within permitted levels
- Sensitive individuals should check the ingredient list
Usage Standard
China：依据 GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》确定使用范围与最大使用量；具体限值随食品类别而异。
International：
- China GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard for Uses of Food Additives：https://www.cfsa.net.cn/
- Codex GSFA General Standard for Food Additives：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/codex-alimentarius/en/
- FAO/WHO JECFA (Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives)：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/jecfa/en/
- US FDA Substances Added to Food：https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/substances-added-food-previously-food-additive-status-list
- EU EFSA Food Additives：https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-additives
In a nutshell
sodium metabisulfite is a Preservative, Antioxidant, Flour treatment agent, safe for use in food production within permitted limits.
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.