Comparing E223 - Sodium metabisulphite vs E226 - Calcium sulphite

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Overview

E223 - Sodium metabisulphite

Sodium metabisulphite (E223) is a preservative and antioxidant used to stop foods and drinks from spoiling or turning brown. It belongs to the “sulphites,” a group of additives that release sulphur dioxide to protect color, flavor, and freshness in many products.

E226 - Calcium sulphite

Calcium sulphite (E226) is a preservative from the sulfite family. It helps stop browning and slows the growth of microbes by releasing small amounts of sulfur dioxide. Some people, especially a few with asthma, can be sensitive to sulfites, so labels matter for them.

Synonyms

E223

Sodium metabisulphite

Pyrosulphite

Sodium metabisulfite

Pyrosulfite

E226

Calcium sulphite

Calcium sulfite

Functions

antioxidant preservative

Origins

Synthetic

Mineral

Products

Found in 2,840 products

Found in 8 products

Search rank & volume

#1547.8K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#341350 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×0.40

under-aware

×4.32

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 5 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

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.