Ingredient · E220

Sulfur Dioxide Preservative

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Sulfur dioxide and sulfites are added to foods to prevent spoilage by inhibiting the …

What it is

Sulfur dioxide is a gas that occurs naturally in small amounts in volcanic gases and is also produced by the breakdown of organic matter. It is manufactured industrially by burning sulfur or by heating sulfide ores. It is commonly used as a preservative in foods and beverages.

Why it's used

Sulfur dioxide and sulfites are added to foods to prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. They also act as antioxidants, preventing browning and preserving the color and flavor of foods. It is often found in dried fruits, wine, and processed potatoes.

Health notes

Sulfur dioxide is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a preservative. However, some individuals, particularly those with asthma, may be sensitive to sulfites, experiencing symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sulfites and established acceptable daily intake levels. While generally considered safe for most people, ongoing research continues to explore potential sensitivities and effects.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Sulfur Dioxide Preservative

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Jo-Lee Food Products, Inc. Johnvince Foods, Original Chipnuts, Onion & Garlic, Onion & Garlic Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 640kcal 16Protein 40Fat 52Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. The Bakery, Assorted Swirl Danishes, Apple Cheese Raspberry, Apple Cheese Raspberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving 434kcal 4.4Protein 20.4Fat 57.5Carbs Abbey Of The Genesee Inc Fruit & Nut Bar, Walnut Mango Snack, Energy & Granola Bars 450kcal 5Protein 17.5Fat 75Carbs Suzy's Cream Cheesecakes, Inc. Classic Variety Cheesecake, Black Forest Cherry Chocolate Amaretto New York Style & Chocolate Caramel Pecan Other Frozen Desserts High in saturated fat — 85% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 35% DV per serving 352kcal 5.5Protein 21.9Fat 34.4Carbs The Kroger Co. Apple Cinnamon Rolls Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 377kcal 6.6Protein 8.2Fat 68.8Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Hot Cross Buns Croissants, Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Other Pastries 309kcal 5.9Protein 6.6Fat 58.8Carbs Tasty Baking Company Old-Fashioned Fruit Kake Pre-Sliced Cake, Fruit Kake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 408kcal 4.6Protein 9.2Fat 76.2Carbs Dierberg's Markets, Inc. Premium Fruit Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 400kcal 4.4Protein 13.3Fat 64.4Carbs H L Foods Ltd Mini Cherry Pies, Cherry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving High in added sugars — 48% DV per serving 362kcal 3.8Protein 12.4Fat 60Carbs H L Foods Ltd Mini Blueberry Pies, Blueberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving High in added sugars — 54% DV per serving 362kcal 3.8Protein 13.3Fat 58.1Carbs Giant Eagle, Inc. Honey Energy Burst Trail Mix With Honey Roasted Peanuts, Honey Roasted Sesame Sticks, Raisins, Dried Strawberries, Banana Chips, Dried Cranberries And Almonds, Honey Energy Burst Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 433kcal 6.7Protein 20Fat 63.3Carbs Long Company, The/Variety Division Premium Fruit Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 409kcal 3.8Protein 12.9Fat 71.2Carbs

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.