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Use Caution

Some concerns raised; more research may be needed

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Avoid
Use Caution
Sulphur Dioxide
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Sulphur Dioxide

E220 Preservative Use Caution 1 min read

At a Glance

Safety Rating
Use Caution
Category
Preservative
E-Number
E220
Banned Somewhere?
No
Controversy Level
Medium

Quick Answer

Sulphur Dioxide (E220) is rated "Use Caution" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).

On This Page

What is Sulphur Dioxide?

Preservative for wine, dried fruits. Allergen

Also known as: sulfur dioxide, sulphur dioxide, SO2, sulfites, sulphites

Regulatory Status by Country

🇺🇸 US

Approved (GRAS)
Agency: FDA

US name: Sulfur Dioxide

GRAS. Must be declared if >10ppm. Prohibited on raw fruits/vegetables since 1986

🇪🇺 EU

Approved
Agency: EFSA

Preservative for wine, dried fruits. Allergen

🇬🇧 UK

Same as EU pre-Brexit
Agency: FSA

UK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications

🇯🇵 Japan

Approved
Agency: MHLW

Japanese: 二酸化硫黄

Approved with strict limits. Used in dried fruits and wine

🇨🇦 CA

Approved
Agency: Health Canada

Generally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.

🇦🇺 AU/NZ

Approved
Agency: FSANZ

Generally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.

🇮🇳 India

Approved
Agency: FSSAI

Widely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.

🇰🇷 KR

Approved
Agency: MFDS

Generally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.

🇧🇷 Brazil

Approved
Agency: ANVISA

Generally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.

🇨🇳 China

Approved
Agency: GB 2760

Permitted under GB 2760 national standard.

Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.

Expert Analysis

Sulphur Dioxide is classified as a preservative in the food additive regulatory framework. While approved for use, some scientific studies have raised questions that warrant ongoing monitoring. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. Some debate exists around Sulphur Dioxide, though the weight of evidence supports its current regulatory status. Sensitive individuals may wish to monitor their consumption. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.

Is Sulphur Dioxide safe?

Sulphur Dioxide has a safety rating of "Use Caution". Some concerns raised; more research may be needed

Is Sulphur Dioxide vegan?

Sulphur Dioxide is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.

Is Sulphur Dioxide banned in Europe?

No, Sulphur Dioxide is Approved in the EU.

What is Sulphur Dioxide made from?

Preservative for wine, dried fruits. Allergen

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sulphur Dioxide safe?
Sulphur Dioxide has a safety rating of "Use Caution" based on regulatory data from 10 countries including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more. Some concerns raised; more research may be needed Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Is Sulphur Dioxide banned in any country?
Sulphur Dioxide is currently approved in major markets including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more, though specific regulations and permitted uses may vary between countries.
What is Sulphur Dioxide used for?
Sulphur Dioxide is a food additive in the "Preservative" category. Preservative for wine, dried fruits. Allergen

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