Sulphite-Free Eating — The Complete Sulphite E-Number List
Sulphites (E220–E228) are declared allergens that trigger reactions — especially asthma — in sensitive people. This is the complete list of sulphite E-numbers plus the caramel colours made using sulphite processes.
Any food or drink containing more than 10mg/kg of sulphites must declare them on the label. The biggest sources are wine, cider and beer, dried fruit, fruit squashes and juices, frozen chips and processed meat products. The caramel colours E150b and E150d are manufactured using sulphite compounds and can contribute traces.
If you're avoiding sulphites, fresh and frozen unprocessed foods are naturally sulphite-free, and organic wine standards permit much lower sulphite levels.
All sulphite-related E-numbers
| E-Number | Name | Safety | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| E220 | Sulphur Dioxide | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E221 | Sodium Sulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E222 | Sodium Bisulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E223 | Sodium Metabisulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E224 | Potassium Metabisulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E226 | Calcium Sulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E227 | Calcium Bisulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E228 | Potassium Bisulphite | Some Concerns | Full details |
| E150b | Caustic Sulphite Caramel | Safe | Full details |
| E150d | Sulphite Ammonia Caramel | Some Concerns | Full details |
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This page is for general information and does not provide medical or dietary advice.