E220 · Sulfur dioxide
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E220?
Sulfur dioxide is a preservative and antioxidant used mainly in dried fruits, wines, and some fruit/vegetable products to prevent browning and inhibit mould, yeast, and bacteria. It is also produced naturally during fermentation of wine at low levels. Regulators including the FDA and EFSA permit it within set limits, and products containing it above a threshold must be labelled, since it can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly people with asthma.
Also appears on labels as: Sulfur dioxide, Sulphur dioxide, E220, E 220, E-220, SO2, Sulfurous anhydride, Sulphurous anhydride, Sulfur oxide, Sulphur oxide, Sulfurous oxide, Sulphurous oxide.
What the evidence says
- Can trigger asthma-like symptoms (wheezing, shortness of breath) in sulfite-sensitive individuals, including some asthmatics.
- Destroys thiamine (vitamin B1) in food, which is relevant for products relying on that nutrient.
- Must be labelled as an allergen above regulatory thresholds due to documented hypersensitivity reactions.
Frequently asked questions
Is E220 safe?
Our overall verdict for E220 (Sulfur dioxide) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E220 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sulfur dioxide — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E220 and why is it used?
Sulfur dioxide is a preservative and antioxidant used mainly in dried fruits, wines, and some fruit/vegetable products to prevent browning and inhibit mould, yeast, and bacteria. It is also produced naturally during fermentation of wine at low levels. Regulators including the FDA and EFSA permit it within set limits, and products containing it above a threshold must be labelled, since it can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly people with asthma.
Does E220 contain allergens?
Yes — known allergens associated with Sulfur dioxide: sulfites.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.