Ingredient · E223

Retains Coconut Whiteness

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers add sodium metabisulfite to prevent oxidation and enzymatic browning, which helps retain the …

What it is

Sodium metabisulfite is a white, crystalline powder primarily used as an antioxidant and reducing agent. It is chemically produced and is a common type of sulfite compound, often added to foods to help retain their natural color and prevent browning.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add sodium metabisulfite to prevent oxidation and enzymatic browning, which helps retain the light color and whiteness of foods like dried coconut, fruits, and vegetables. It also functions as a preservative, inhibiting the growth of certain microorganisms. It is found in products such as coconut flakes and some baking additives.

Health notes

The FDA generally recognizes sulfites as safe for most individuals. However, some people, particularly those with asthma, may experience allergic-type reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, or stomach upset. JECFA has evaluated sulfites and established an acceptable daily intake. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety for the general population when consumed within typical levels.

Allergen info

Sulfites are not classified as one of the 9 major allergens by the FDA. However, they are a common food sensitivity for some individuals, and their presence must be declared on food labels if they exceed 10 parts per million.

Products containing Retains Coconut Whiteness

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Kraft Heinz Foods Company Coconut Cream Cook & Serve Pudding & Pie Filling, Coconut Cream Puddings & Custards High in added sugars — 26% DV per serving 429kcal 0Protein 11.9Fat 81.0Carbs The Hershey Company Coconut Flakes Baking Additives & Extracts High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 40Carbs Ahold USA, Inc. Goat Cheese Log With Mango And Pineapple, Toasted Coconut Cheese 321kcal 14.3Protein 21.4Fat 17.9Carbs Sweet Sam's Baking Company Sweet Sam's, Cookie Cookies & Biscuits High in saturated fat — 70% DV per serving 402kcal 5.9Protein 18.6Fat 55.9Carbs Hannaford Bros. Co. Sweetened Coconut Flakes Baking Additives & Extracts High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 46.7Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Coconut Flakes Baking Additives & Extracts High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 46.7Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Sweetened Coconut Flakes Baking Additives & Extracts High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 46.7Carbs Kraft Heinz Foods Company Coconut Dark Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix, Coconut Puddings & Custards High in added sugars — 24% DV per serving 375kcal 4.2Protein 8.3Fat 79.2Carbs The Moran Group Incorporated Sweetened Flake Coconut Baking Additives & Extracts High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 30Fat 46.7Carbs

Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. Pineapple, Mango & Coconut With Yogurt & Granola Breakfast Bowl, Pineapple, Mango & Coconut With Yogurt & Granola Other Deli High in added sugars — 48% DV per serving 119kcal 3.1Protein 1.5Fat 23.4Carbs Kraft Heinz Foods Company Chopped Almond Joy Refrigerated Desserts, Chocolate Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving High in added sugars — 30% DV per serving 235kcal 3.1Protein 15.3Fat 22.4Carbs

Kraft Heinz Foods Company Angel Flake Sweetened Coconut Syrups & Molasses High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 0Protein 30Fat 46.7Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.