Foods Containing E221 (Sodium Sulphite)
E221 (Sodium Sulphite) is a synthetic sulphite salt, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. Here's where you're most likely to find it on food labels.
Common foods that contain E221
E221 is used across soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. The foods where it appears most often include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Exact usage varies by brand and recipe — the only way to know for certain whether a specific product contains E221 is to check its ingredients list, where it must be declared by law, either as "E221" or as "Sodium Sulphite".
How to spot E221 on a label
In the UK and EU, additives must appear in the ingredients list with their function and either their E-number or full name — for example "preservatives: E221" or "preservatives: sodium sulphite". In the US the E-number system isn't used, so look for the full name "Sodium Sulphite" instead.
Should you avoid foods containing E221?
E221 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. Sulphites are among the 14 major allergens that must be declared on food labels, because they can trigger asthma attacks and allergic-type reactions in sensitive people. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E221 is not considered harmful.
Full guide to E221: safety, vegan and halal status →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).