Sodium Sulphite
Also known as: E221, Sodium sulfite
Sodium sulfite belongs to the sulfite family (E220-E228) which can trigger severe asthma attacks and other hypersensitivity reactions in sensitive individuals; FDA estimates ~1% of the population is sulfite-sensitive (and up to 5-10% of asthmatics). FDA banned sulfites on fresh fruits and vegetables in 1986 after deaths from salad-bar exposure.
What it is
Sodium sulfite (Na2SO3); sulfite preservative.
Antioxidant, preservative; controls browning and microbial growth.
Why it's flagged
- asthma attacks in sensitive individuals
- FDA-mandated allergen labeling at >=10 ppm
- EFSA withdrew ADI in 2022
- banned on fresh fruits/vegetables (US, 1986)
What regulators actually say
"Sodium sulfite... is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice, except that it is not used in meats; in food recognized as a source of vitamin B1; on fruits or vegetables intended to be served raw to consumers or sold raw to consumers, or to be presented to consumers as fresh."
"The existing ADI was withdrawn because adequate toxicity data were not available... The calculated MOEs raises some safety concerns for high consumers of foodstuffs that contain sulfites."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted with mandatory labeling at concentrations >=10 ppm; banned on fresh fruits and vegetables (21 CFR 182.3798).
European Union — EFSA
Approved (E 221); however EFSA 2022 follow-up withdrew ADI and noted safety concerns for high consumers.
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