Sulfur Dioxide
Sulphur dioxide and sulfites trigger asthma exacerbation and other adverse reactions in approximately 3-10% of asthmatic individuals, including life-threatening bronchospasm. EFSA's 2022 follow-up withdrew the temporary group ADI because the toxicity database was inadequate, raising a safety concern at current dietary exposures.
What it is
Sulphur Dioxide — an inorganic gas (SO2) used as a preservative; also generated from sulfite salts.
Antimicrobial, antioxidant, browning inhibitor; preserves dried fruit, wine, and juices.
Why it's flagged
- asthma exacerbation in sensitive individuals
- EFSA withdrew temporary ADI in 2022
- FDA declaration mandatory at >=10 ppm
What regulators actually say
"The Panel considered that the available toxicity database was inadequate to derive an ADI and withdrew the current temporary group acceptable daily intake (ADI). The Panel concluded that this raises a safety concern for both dietary exposure scenarios."
"Most studies report a prevalence of sulphite sensitivity of 3 to 10% among asthmatic subjects who ingest these additives."
"Foods that contain a sulfiting agent in a concentration of 10 ppm or more must declare the sulfiting agent on the label."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS for specified uses (21 CFR 182.3862); banned on raw produce; declaration required >=10 ppm
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E 220; temporary group ADI withdrawn (EFSA 2022)
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