Sodium metabisulphite
What you need to know
Sodium metabisulphite is one of the sulphite preservatives (the E220–228 family). Sulphites keep dried fruit, wine and processed foods from browning and spoiling.
Sulphites are a recognised allergen-class ingredient: they can trigger asthma attacks and intolerance reactions in sensitive people. That is why “contains sulphites” must appear on labels in every major market.
For everyone else, intake within the daily limit is considered safe — though people who eat a lot of dried fruit can approach it.
Where it stands, by region
The same additive can be approved in one country and banned in another. This is the divergence that matters most.
| 🇦🇺AU / NZ | Approved Permitted; mandatory allergen-style declaration of sulphites above 10 mg/kg. |
| 🇪🇺EU | Approved Permitted; mandatory “contains sulphites” declaration above 10 mg/kg. |
| 🇺🇸US | Approved Permitted (GRAS with limits); banned on raw fruit & vegetables since 1986; declaration required. |
| 🇨🇦CA | Approved Permitted; sulphites are a priority allergen requiring declaration. |
Health evidence
How settled the science is for each area — not how dangerous. “Unknown” means not enough good studies yet.
Na₂S₂O₅, releases sulphur dioxide (SO₂). Group ADI 0.7 mg/kg bw/day expressed as SO₂ (JECFA/EFSA). Mandatory allergen declaration above 10 mg/kg.