Ingredient

Sodium Bisulfite And BHT

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium bisulfite and BHT are often used together as preservatives in processed foods. Sodium …

What it is

Sodium bisulfite is a chemical compound used as a preservative. It is made by combining sulfur dioxide with a sodium compound. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant, a type of preservative, made from petroleum-based chemicals.

Why it's used

Sodium bisulfite and BHT are often used together as preservatives in processed foods. Sodium bisulfite prevents browning and spoilage in dried fruits, wines, and some processed vegetables. BHT prevents fats and oils from going rancid, extending the shelf life of many processed foods, including cereals, baked goods, and snack foods.

Health notes

Sodium bisulfite is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a preservative, though it can cause allergic-type reactions in sensitive individuals. BHT is also FDA approved as a food additive. Both have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have raised questions about the long-term effects of BHT, but regulatory agencies consider it safe at typical levels of consumption.

Allergen info

Neither sodium bisulfite nor BHT are derived from any of the nine major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Sodium Bisulfite And BHT

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Conagra Brands BANQUET Fried Chicken Meal, 9 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 39% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 173kcal 8.2Protein 9.8Fat 12.6Carbs Conagra Brands BANQUET Boneless Pork Ribs Meal, 10 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 110kcal 5.0Protein 3.9Fat 13.1Carbs Conagra Brands HEALTHY CHOICE Oven Roasted Chicken Complete Meal, 11.4 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 74kcal 5.6Protein 1.6Fat 9.3Carbs Conagra Brands HEALTHY CHOICE Grilled Chicken Barbeque Complete Meal, 10.5 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 104kcal 5.0Protein 1.7Fat 16.8Carbs Conagra Brands BANQUET Meatloaf Meal, 9.5 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 40% DV per serving 93kcal 4.8Protein 4.1Fat 9.7Carbs Conagra Brands, Inc. Healthy Choice, Honey Roasted Turkey Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 23% DV per serving 85kcal 5.9Protein 1.5Fat 11.4Carbs Conagra Brands, Inc. Beef Strips Portabella Tender Beef Strips In A Baby Portabella Mushroom Sauce, Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, And Caramel Apple Dessert Complete Meals, Beef Strips Portabella Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 88kcal 6.0Protein 2.2Fat 10.4Carbs Marie Callender's Retail Foods Marie Callender's, Herb Roasted Chicken With Creamy Mashed Potatoes And Corn, Marie Callender's, Herb Roasted Chicken With Creamy Mashed Potatoes And Corn Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 41% DV per serving 118kcal 8.0Protein 4.4Fat 11.8Carbs Garlic Paste, Garlic Garlic Paste, Garlic Other Cooking Sauces 157kcal 0Protein 0Fat 28.6Carbs

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.