Comparing E221 - Sodium sulphite vs E223 - Sodium metabisulphite
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Found in 595 products
Found in 2,840 products
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Popular questions
What is the formula for sodium sulfite?
Na2SO3; it’s also commonly available as the heptahydrate Na2SO3·7H2O.
What is the chemical formula for sodium sulfite?
Na2SO3 (sodium sulfite), sometimes encountered as the heptahydrate Na2SO3·7H2O.
Is sodium phosphate a sulfite?
No—sodium phosphate contains the phosphate anion (PO4^3-), not the sulfite anion (SO3^2-).
What is sodium sulfite used for?
It’s an antioxidant/preservative that prevents browning and oxidation and helps stabilize color and flavor in foods like dried fruits and potatoes; in wine it also helps control unwanted microbes.
"sodium sulfite as a preservative is not allowed on what foods"?
In the U.S., sulfiting agents like sodium sulfite are not allowed on fresh fruits and vegetables intended to be served or sold raw to consumers (e.g., salad bars, fresh-cut produce).
Is sodium metabisulfite bad for you?
For most people it isn’t “bad” at the low levels used in foods, but sulfite‑sensitive individuals (including some asthmatics) can have reactions such as wheezing, hives, or headaches. Regulators set a group ADI for sulfites of 0–0.7 mg SO2 equivalents per kg body weight per day.
Is sodium metabisulfite safe?
Yes—E223 is an approved preservative/antioxidant when used within regulated limits, though sulfites must be declared on labels and can trigger adverse reactions in sensitive people and some asthmatics.
Is sodium metabisulfite gluten free?
Yes. It’s a synthetic inorganic salt and contains no gluten; any gluten risk would come from other ingredients or cross-contact, not the additive itself.
What is sodium metabisulfite used for?
It’s used as an antioxidant and preservative to prevent browning and microbial spoilage in foods and drinks (e.g., wine, cider, dried fruits, seafood, potato products), and as a sanitizing agent for winemaking/brewing equipment.
How much sodium metabisulfite per gallon of wine?
To add about 50 mg/L (ppm) SO2 to 1 US gallon, use roughly 0.28 g sodium metabisulfite (about half a sodium Campden tablet); winemakers typically target 25–50 ppm free SO2 depending on pH and often use potassium metabisulfite instead.