Digestoa
Additive · Preservative

Sulphur dioxide (E220)

Sulphur dioxide (E220) is a preservative that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include asthma triggers.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypePreservative
Found inDried fruit, wine, fruit juices, pickled foods and some processed potato products.
ConcernsAsthma triggers · Allergic reactions

What is Sulphur dioxide?

Sulphur dioxide is a preservative and antioxidant. It can trigger asthma and is a labelled allergen (sulphites).

Is Sulphur dioxide bad for you?

Digestoa flags Sulphur dioxide as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including asthma triggers, allergic reactions. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Sulphur dioxide?

Dried fruit, wine, fruit juices, pickled foods and some processed potato products..

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Sulphur dioxide. But it's a useful flag: when you see E220 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Look for 'unsulphured' dried fruit and sulphite-free labels.

Frequently asked questions

Is E220 the same as Sulphur dioxide?
Yes — E220 is the international additive (E-number) code for Sulphur dioxide.
Is Sulphur dioxide bad for you?
Digestoa flags Sulphur dioxide (E220) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as asthma triggers.
What are the side effects of Sulphur dioxide?
Reported concerns include: Asthma triggers; Allergic reactions.
What foods contain Sulphur dioxide?
Dried fruit, wine, fruit juices, pickled foods and some processed potato products..
How can I avoid Sulphur dioxide?
Check the ingredients list for "Sulphur dioxide" or "E220", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related preservative additives

Potassium nitrite (E249)Sodium nitrite (E250)Sodium nitrate (E251)Potassium nitrate (E252)Benzoic acid (E210)Sodium benzoate (E211)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.