preservative INS 220

Sulfur Dioxide E220

inorganic — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sulfur dioxide

CAS: 7446-09-5

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Sulfur Dioxide occurs naturally in Volcanic gases and produced during wine fermentation. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Sulfur Dioxide isn't just a food additive — it's also used in industrial applications.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by food category mg/kg

Must be declared on labels; allergen concern for sensitive individuals (especially asthmatics)

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Must be declared on labels; banned from fresh fruits and vegetables (except grapes) since 1986

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–0.7 mg/kg bw/day

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

0.7 mg/kg bw/day (group ADI for sulfites)

Natural Occurrence

A gas produced naturally during fermentation and volcanic activity, but the food additive is produced industrially.

Volcanic gasesproduced during wine fermentation

Manufacturing

Method: industrial production

Produced industrially by burning sulfur or roasting sulfide ores.

Applications Beyond Food

Industrial

Used in paper manufacturing, water treatment, and as a reducing agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sulfur Dioxide (E220)?

Sulfur Dioxide (E220) is a preservative used in food products. It is inorganic and synthetic. A gas produced naturally during fermentation and volcanic activity, but the food additive is produced industrially.

Where is Sulfur Dioxide found naturally?

Sulfur Dioxide is naturally found in Volcanic gases, produced during wine fermentation. A gas produced naturally during fermentation and volcanic activity, but the food additive is produced industrially.

What is the ADI for Sulfur Dioxide?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sulfur Dioxide is 0–0.7 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Sulfur Dioxide?

Sulfur Dioxide is used in various food categories including Dried fruit and vegetables, Wine and other grape-based products. It is used as a preservative in these products.

Is Sulfur Dioxide the same as Sulphur dioxide?

Yes, Sulfur Dioxide is also known as Sulphur dioxide, SO2. These are different names for the same substance.