Ingredient · E223

Sodium Metabisulfites

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Sodium metabisulfite is added to foods to prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of …

What it is

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

Why it's used

Sodium metabisulfite is added to foods to prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and molds. It also acts as an antioxidant, preventing browning and preserving color in fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. It is often found in dried fruits, wines, baked goods, and seafood.

Health notes

In the US, sodium metabisulfite is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. It can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with asthma. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated sodium metabisulfite. Evidence regarding its health effects at typical intake levels is generally considered safe for the population, though sensitive individuals may experience adverse reactions.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Sodium Metabisulfites

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McIlhenny Company Spartan, Instant Oatmeal, Cranberry, Apple, Walnut & Multigrain Oatmeal, Cranberry, Apple, Walnut & Multigrain Oatmeal Cereal 387kcal 9.3Protein 10.7Fat 70.7Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Ice Cream, Cherry Chocolate Amaretto Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 241kcal 2.3Protein 12.6Fat 28.7Carbs Eastern Fish Company LLC Wild Argentine Red Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in cholesterol — 45% DV per serving 89kcal 17.9Protein 0.5Fat 0Carbs Quality Frozen Foods Inc. Premium Pie Crusts Crusts & Dough 481kcal 7.4Protein 29.6Fat 40.7Carbs

Entertainment Production House Inc. Coconut Water With Pulp Plant Based Water 33kcal 0Protein 0Fat 8.3Carbs Quality Frozen Foods Inc. Premium Mini Dessert Shells Pastry Shells & Fillings 471kcal 5.9Protein 29.4Fat 41.2Carbs Stater Bros. Markets Inc. Headless, Shell-On Jumbo Red Argentine Patagonian Raw Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in cholesterol — 73% DV per serving 71kcal 16.8Protein 0Fat 0Carbs Eastern Fish Company LLC 16/25 Raw Peeled And Deveined Tail On Wild Argentine Red Shrimp Frozen Fish & Seafood High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 40% DV per serving 54kcal 10.7Protein 0Fat 0Carbs Linda's Mustard Mac N' Cheese Argentinian Red Shrimp, Mac N' Cheese Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 58% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 53% DV per serving 220kcal 7.9Protein 6.2Fat 27.3Carbs Hotel Express International Alfredo Green Chile Shrimp, Alfredo Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 56% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 78% DV per serving 144kcal 3.2Protein 5.9Fat 13.8Carbs Hotel Express International Chipotle Agave Shrimp With Ramen Noodle, Bell Pepper, Onion & Pea, Chipotle Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 86% DV per serving High in added sugars — 32% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 53% DV per serving 132kcal 3.2Protein 1.5Fat 22.9Carbs Quality Frozen Foods Inc. Premium Tart Shells Pastry Shells & Fillings 381kcal 4.8Protein 28.6Fat 42.9Carbs

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.