Comparing E202 - Potassium sorbate vs E220 - Sulphur dioxide

Synonyms
E202
Potassium sorbate
E220
Sulphur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Products

Found in 23,547 products

Found in 1,996 products

Search rank & volume
#9322.2K / mo🇺🇸U.S.
#9720.4K / mo🇺🇸U.S.
Awareness score

×0.14
under-aware

×1.49
over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions
  1. Is potassium sorbate bad for you?

    Generally no; potassium sorbate (E202) is a low-toxicity preservative approved by major regulators, though high concentrations can irritate and rare sensitivities occur.

  2. Is potassium sorbate safe?

    Yes—it's considered safe at permitted food levels by authorities like FDA, EFSA, and JECFA; occasional mild sensitivities have been reported.

  3. How much potassium sorbate per gallon of mead?

    Typically about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L) to inhibit refermentation; add after fermentation is complete and alongside sulfite.

  4. How much potassium sorbate per gallon of wine?

    Commonly about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L); use with sulfite and check any local limits on sorbate levels.

  5. Is potassium sorbate gluten free?

    Yes—it's a synthetic preservative and contains no gluten, so it's suitable for people with celiac disease.

  1. Is sulfur dioxide bad for you?

    At high concentrations as a gas, sulfur dioxide is harmful and irritates the eyes and lungs; in foods at regulated levels (E220) it’s considered safe for most people. Some individuals—especially those with asthma or sulfite sensitivity—may experience reactions such as wheezing, hives, or stomach upset.

  2. Is sulfur dioxide in food bad for you?

    Within legal limits, sulfites (including SO2, E220) are approved preservatives and generally safe for the general population. They must be declared at ≥10 mg/kg or L, and sensitive individuals can react; most people stay below the accepted daily intake (about 0–0.7 mg/kg body weight), though heavy consumers of sulfited foods may approach or exceed it.

  3. What is sulfur dioxide used for?

    It’s an antioxidant and preservative that prevents browning and inhibits microbes to extend shelf life. Common uses include wines, ciders, dried fruits, fruit juices, and some pickled or processed foods.

  4. Where does sulfur dioxide come from?

    Food-grade sulfur dioxide is produced industrially by burning sulfur or processing sulfur‑containing ores, and small amounts can also form during fermentation. It also occurs naturally from volcanic emissions, but the additive used in foods is manufactured and added in controlled amounts.

  5. Is sulfur dioxide in dried fruit bad for you?

    It preserves color and prevents spoilage in dried fruit and is considered safe at permitted levels, but can trigger reactions in sulfite‑sensitive people, especially some asthmatics. If you’re sensitive, choose “unsulphured” dried fruit; rinsing may reduce surface residues but won’t remove all sulfites.