E221

This section is about
E-numbers (Preservatives).

To read about other E-numbers use the links on the left.

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E221 is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU) and used as a synthetic food preservative to prevent discolouration in dried fruits.

The common name for E221 is sodium sulphite.

E221 is the sodium salt for sulphurous acid and forms sodium sulphate after reacting with oxygen. The liver reduces E221 to sulphate, for excretion in the urine.

Mixing sodium sulphite with alcohol increases the symptoms of a hangover. Added sulphites (E221 – E228) should be avoided if an individual is intolerant to natural sulphites. The chemical has been known to irritate the stomach lining, due to the release of sulphurous acid. E221 also destroys the vitamin B1 content of the food, which is important for a healthy heart and nerves, as well as producing energy for the body.

Examples of food and drink products that sometimes include E221:

• beer
• bread
• caramel
• egg yolk products
• salads

Note⁽¹⁾ The list of Food Additives (E Numbers) included in this section is subject to change as chemicals are added or removed by regulatory authorities. IvyRose cannot guarantee that this list is complete or that all details are up to date.

Note⁽²⁾ These numbers are also used in Australia and New Zealand but without the E.

Government approvals and other regulatory details are subject to change.

Regulatory approvals and advice can change over time.

This was added in 2007-08. For current details please check with the relevant authorities.