E221 · Sodium sulfite
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E221?
Sodium sulfite is a preservative and antioxidant used in the food industry to prevent oxidation and microbial spoilage, for example in dried fruits and some wines. It breaks down to release sulfur dioxide, especially when heated or exposed to acid, and is subject to the same labelling requirements as other sulfites because it can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly people with asthma.
Also appears on labels as: E221, E 221, E-221, Sodium Sulfite, Na2SO3, Disodium Sulfite, Sodium Sulphite, Disodium Sulphite, Sodium Sulfite (Preservative), Sodium Sulphite (Preservative), Sodium Sulfite Anhydrous, Sodium Sulphite Anhydrous.
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.
- Must be labelled as an allergen above regulatory thresholds due to documented hypersensitivity reactions.
Frequently asked questions
Is E221 safe?
Our overall verdict for E221 (Sodium sulfite) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E221 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium sulfite — 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 E221 and why is it used?
Sodium sulfite is a preservative and antioxidant used in the food industry to prevent oxidation and microbial spoilage, for example in dried fruits and some wines. It breaks down to release sulfur dioxide, especially when heated or exposed to acid, and is subject to the same labelling requirements as other sulfites because it can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly people with asthma.
Does E221 contain allergens?
Yes — known allergens associated with Sodium sulfite: 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.