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Sodium Bisulfite(E222)

Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Sodium Bisulfite is a preservative — Bleaching, antibrowning, and preservative additive

Also: Sodium Acid Sulfite

What it does

Bleaching, antibrowning, and preservative additive

Where you'll see it

ale, wine, beer, canned shrimp, dried fruit, reconstituted lemon juice

What the research says

Can cause changes in genetic material of bacteria; suspect mutagen; strong skin and eye irritant

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: Strong irritant; suspect mutagen; not permitted in vitamin B1 sources

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): sodium bisulfite can cause changes in the genetic material of bacteria and is a suspect mutagen