Sodium Metabisulfite Added As A Dough Conditioner

Sodium metabisulfite is a white or slightly yellowish crystalline powder. It is a salt of sulfurous acid, commonly produced by reacting sulfur dioxide with sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. It is often used as a preservative and antioxidant.

Sodium metabisulfite is used as a dough conditioner in baking to improve texture and elasticity. It also acts as a preservative and antioxidant in various food products, preventing spoilage and maintaining color. It is found in baked goods, dried fruits, and processed potatoes.

In the U.S., sodium metabisulfite is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as an additive. It is a sulfite, and some individuals, particularly those with asthma, may be sensitive to sulfites, experiencing reactions like hives or difficulty breathing. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sulfites and established an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated sulfites, and they are permitted as food additives in the EU.