Ingredient · E222

Sodium Bisulfite

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium bisulfite is added to foods to prevent browning, inhibit the growth of bacteria …

What it is

Sodium bisulfite is a chemical compound made from sulfur dioxide and sodium hydroxide. It is a white crystalline powder that dissolves in water. It is often used as a preservative and antioxidant.

Why it's used

Sodium bisulfite is added to foods to prevent browning, inhibit the growth of bacteria and yeast, and act as a bleaching agent. It is commonly found in dried fruits, processed potatoes, wine, and some baked goods.

Health notes

Sodium bisulfite is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. It can cause allergic-type reactions in some individuals, particularly those with asthma. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sodium bisulfite and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence regarding its long-term health effects at typical consumption levels is mixed, with some studies suggesting potential concerns and others finding no significant issues.

Allergen info

Sodium bisulfite is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Sodium Bisulfite

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CLOVER VALLEY Au Gratin Potatoes Vegetable and Lentil Mixes High in sodium — 25% DV per serving 357kcal 7.1Protein 2.3Fat 78.6Carbs ROUNDY'S Roundy's, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Butter & Herb Vegetable and Lentil Mixes 348kcal 8.7Protein 2.2Fat 78.3Carbs SPARTAN Condensed Soup Canned Condensed Soup High in sodium — 35% DV per serving 80kcal 1.6Protein 2.4Fat 12Carbs SOIR'EE Soir'Ee, Maraschino Cherries Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 125kcal 0Protein 0Fat 25Carbs Harris-Teeter Inc. Harris Teeter, Juice, Lemon Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs SAHTEIN Grape Leaves Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs FARMER'S HEART Linguine Pasta Dinners High in sodium — 50% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 433kcal 8.9Protein 17.8Fat 58.9Carbs NATURE'S BEST SEAFOOD Red Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in cholesterol — 37% DV per serving 71kcal 23.8Protein 0Fat 0Carbs SUMMER FRESH Noodle Other Deli High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving 200kcal 2Protein 11Fat 22Carbs Cocktail Onions FRESH & EASY Cocktail Onions Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 29% DV per serving 18kcal 0Protein 0Fat 3.6Carbs SEA 'PEARL Wild American Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in cholesterol — 52% DV per serving 107kcal 20.5Protein 1.8Fat 0.9Carbs SHURFINE Mashed Potatoes Vegetable and Lentil Mixes 368kcal 10.5Protein 0Fat 79.0Carbs
Salt (332 products) Preservative (270 products) Sodium Tripolyphosphate (193 products) Water (188 products) To Retain Moisture (178 products) Citric Acid (169 products) Shrimp (150 products) Sugar (146 products) Natural Flavors (131 products) Maltodextrin (115 products)

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.