Calcium sulphite

E number E226CAS 10257-55-3

Chemical structure of Calcium sulphite, from PubChem compound 10154041
Structure from PubChem CID 10154041 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Calcium sulphite is one of the EU's sulphite preservatives, used in dried and prepared fruit and vegetables, wine and other drinks. In the EU sulphites must be declared as an allergen above 10 mg per kilogram or litre, expressed as sulphur dioxide.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Calcium sulphite by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandNo listed food uses foundThis site has not matched this substance to any food use on this jurisdiction’s list of authorised food additives. A food additive may be used only in foods that list names. Flavourings, enzymes, processing aids and added nutrients are regulated separately and do not appear on it.
CanadaHealth CanadaNo listing matchedHealth Canada’s lists name additives without E or INS numbers, so this site matches them by exact name. A substance listed there under a name this site does not recognise has no row here.
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

41 food categories

highest permitted level 2,000 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 11.1 Sugars and syrups as defined by directive 2001/111/ec — 10 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 10 mg/kg. only sugars, except glucose syrup. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — 40 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 40 mg/kg. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.2.1 Herbs and spices — 150 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 150 mg/kg. only Cinnamon ( Cinnamomum ceylanicum ). Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/kg. only citrus-juice-based seasonings. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — 170 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 170 mg/kg. only fermentation vinegar. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.4 Mustard — 250 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 250 mg/kg. excluding dijon mustard. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — 200 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/kg. only analogues of meat, fish, crustaceans and cephalopods. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — 2,000 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 2000 mg/l. only concentrated grape juice for home wine-making.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinks — 20 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 20 mg/l. only carry over from concentrates in non-alcoholic flavoured drinks containing fruit juice.
  • 14.2.1 beer and malt beverages — 20 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 20 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.2 Wine and other products defined in Annex VII part II of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. only alcohol-free. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787 — 50 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/l. only distilled alcoholic beverages containing whole pears. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 % — 200 mg/lPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 200 mg/l. only napój winny owocowy, napój winny miodowy, aromatyzowany napój winny owocowy, aromatyzowany napój winny miodowy,. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only cereal- and potato-based snacks. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only marinated nuts. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.1 entire fresh fruit and vegetables — 10 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 10 mg/kg. only table grapes, fresh lychees (measured on edible parts) and blueberries ( Vaccinium corymbosum). Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.2 peeled cut and shredded fruit and vegetables — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only peeled potatoes. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.3 frozen fruit and vegetables — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only white vegetables including mushrooms and white pulses. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetables — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only dried coconut. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — 100 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 100 mg/kg. except olives and golden peppers in brine. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only white vegetables, including pulses and processed mushrooms. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only processed white vegetables and mushrooms. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 100 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 100 mg/kg. only jams, jellies and marmelades made with sulphited fruit. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg.
  • 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — 400 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 400 mg/kg. only dehydrated potatoes products. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweets — 100 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 100 mg/kg. only candied, crystallised or glacé fruit, vegetables, angelica and citrus peel. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only glucose syrup-based confectionery (carry over from the glucose syrup only). Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 6.1 whole broken or flaked grain — 30 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 30 mg/kg. only sago and pearl barley. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 6.2.2 starches — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. excluding starches in infant formulae, follow-on formulae and processed cereal-based foods and baby foods. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only dry biscuits. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — 450 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 450 mg/kg. only breakfast sausages ; Burger meat with a minimum vegetable and/or cereal content of 4 % mixed within the meat. Note 1: The additives may be added individually or in combination.
  • 9.1.2 Unprocessed molluscs and crustaceans — 150 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 150 mg/kg. only fresh, frozen and deep-frozen crustaceans and cephalopods; crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family up to 80 units per kg. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — 50 mg/kgPermitted as a member of Sulphur dioxide - sulphites. ML = 50 mg/kg. only cooked crustaceans and cephalopods. Note 3: Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 40 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

40 food categories

highest permitted level 450 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 11.1 Sugars and syrups as defined by Directive 2001/111/EC — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 10: only sugars, except glucose syrup; (2) ML 20: only glucose syrup, whether or not dehydrated. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 40: no further restriction; (2) ML 70: only treacle and molasses. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.2.1 Herbs and spices — 150 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 150. only cinnamon ( Cinnamomum ceylanicum ). Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. only citrus-juice-based seasonings. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — 170 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 170. only fermentation vinegar. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 250: excluding Dijon mustard; (2) ML 500: only Dijon mustard. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 200: only analogues of meat, fish, crustaceans and cephalopods; (2) ML 50: only gelatine. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 2000: only concentrated grape juice for home wine-making; (2) ML 50: only orange, grapefruit, apple and pineapple juice for bulk dispensing in catering establishments; (3) ML 350: only lime and lemon juice; (4) ML 70: only grape juice, unfermented, for sacramental use. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 20: only carry over from concentrates in non-alcoholic flavoured drinks containing fruit juice; (2) ML 50: only non-alcoholic flavoured drinks containing at least 235 g/l glucose syrup; (3) ML 350: only concentrates based on fruit juice and containing not less than 2,5 % barley (barley water); (4) ML 250: only other concentrates based on fruit juice or comminuted fruit; capilé, groselha. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.1 Beer and malt beverages — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 20: no further restriction; (2) ML 50: only beer with a second fermentation in the cask. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.2 Wine and other products defined by Regulation (EEC) No 1234/2007, and alcohol-free counterparts — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. only alcohol-free. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 200: no further restriction; (2) ML 260: only made wine. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. only distilled alcoholic beverages containing whole pears. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — 200 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 200. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 200: only nalewka na winie owocowym, aromatyzowana nalewka na winie owocowym, nalewka na winie z soku winogronowego, aromatyzowana nalewka na winie z soku winogronowego, napój winny owocowy lub miodowy, aromatyzowany napój winny owocowy lub miodowy, wino owocowe niskoalkoholowe and aromatyzowane wino owocowe niskoalkoholowe; (2) ML 20: only in fermented grape must-based drinks Period of application: From 25 December 2012 . Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. only cereal- and potato-based snacks. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. only marinated nuts. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.1 Entire fresh fruit and vegetables — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 10: only table grapes, fresh lychees (measured on edible parts) and blueberries ( Vaccinium corymbosum ); (2) ML 100: only vacuum-packed sweetcorn. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.2 Peeled, cut and shredded fruit and vegetables — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only peeled potatoes; (2) ML 300: only onion, garlic and shallot pulp; (3) ML 800: only horseradish pulp. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.1.3 Frozen fruit and vegetables — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only white vegetables including mushrooms and white pulses; (2) ML 100: only frozen and deep-frozen potatoes. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only dried coconut; (2) ML 50: only white vegetables, processed, including pulses; (3) ML 100: only dried mushrooms; (4) ML 150: only dried ginger; (5) ML 200: only dried tomatoes; (6) ML 400: only white vegetables, dried; (7) ML 500: only dried fruit and nuts in shell excluding dried apples, pears, bananas, apricots, peaches, grapes, prunes and figs; (8) ML 600: only dried apples and pears; (9) ML 1000: only dried bananas; (10) ML 2000: only dried apricots, peaches, grapes, prunes, and figs. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 100: except olives and golden peppers in brine; (2) ML 500: only golden peppers in brine. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only white vegetables, including pulses and processed mushrooms; (2) ML 250: only bottled, sliced lemon; (3) ML 100: only bottled whiteheart cherries; vacuum-packed sweetcorn. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only processed white vegetables and mushrooms; (2) ML 100: only rehydrated dried fruit and lychees, mostarda di frutta; (3) ML 300: only onion, garlic and shallot pulp; (4) ML 800: only horseradish pulp; (5) ML 800: only jellying fruit extract, liquid pectin for sale to the final consumer. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 100 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 100. only jams, jellies and mermelades made with sulphited fruit. Note (3).
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: no further restriction; (2) ML 100: only jams, jellies and marmalades made with sulphited fruit. Note (3).
  • 4.2.5.3 Other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 400: only dehydrated potatoes products; (2) ML 100: no further restriction. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 100: only candied, crystallised or glacé fruit, vegetables, angelica and citrus peel; (2) ML 50: only glucose syrup-based confectionery (carry over from the glucose syrup only). Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only glucose syrup-based confectionery (carry over from the glucose syrup only); (2) ML 40: only toppings (syrups for pancakes, flavoured syrups for milkshakes and ice cream; similar products); (3) ML 100: only fruit fillings for pastries. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 6.1 Whole, broken, or flaked grain — 30 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 30. only sago and pearl barley. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. excluding starches in infant formulae, follow on formulae and processed cereal-based foods and baby foods. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 50 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. ML = 50. only dry biscuits. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 and relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — 450 mg/kg or mg/lPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 450: only breakfast sausages ; Burger meat with a minimum vegetable and/or cereal content of 4 % mixed within the meat; (2) ML 450: only salsicha fresca, longaniza fresca, butifarra fresca. Note (1): The additives may be added individually or in combination. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present.
  • 9.1.2 Unprocessed molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 150: only fresh, frozen and deep-frozen crustaceans and cephalopods; crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family up to 80 units per kg; (2) ML 200: only crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family between 80 and 120 units per kg; (3) ML 300: only crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family over 120 units per kg. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present. Note (10): Maximum limits in edible parts.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — several limitsPermitted as a member of E 220–228: Sulphur dioxide — sulphites. (1) ML 50: only cooked crustaceans and cephalopods; (2) ML 135: only cooked crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family up to 80 units per kg; (3) ML 180: only cooked crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family between 80 and 120 units per kg; (4) ML 200: only dried salted fish of the ‘ Gadidae ’ species; (5) ML 270: only cooked crustaceans of the Penaeidae, Solenoceridae and Aristaeidae family over 120 units per kg. Note (3): Maximum levels are expressed as SO 2 relate to the total quantity, available from all sources, an SO 2 content of not more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/l is not considered to be present. Note (10): Maximum limits in edible parts.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 39 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyNo listing matchedThis site imports only Japan’s list of designated additives (Appended Table 1 to the Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act), matched by English name. Existing additives, natural flavouring agents and ordinary foods used as additives are permitted outside that list and are not imported, so an empty row does not show that Japan does not permit the substance.
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyNo listing matchedThis site imports Part III of South Korea’s Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, matched by CAS number, then INS number, then exact name. Mixed preparations and sanitisers are not imported, and an entry whose identifiers disagreed with a page’s is held for review, so an empty row does not show that South Korea does not permit the substance.
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationNot listedDoes not appear on this jurisdiction’s permitted list. That is not the same as being prohibited.
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFANot listedDoes not appear on this jurisdiction’s permitted list. That is not the same as being prohibited.

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

European Union10 mg/kg – 2,000 mg/kg41 numeric limit
Great Britain30 mg/kg – 450 mg/kg18 numeric limit, 22 several limits

What it is made from

Produced by reacting sulfur dioxide with a calcium source such as calcium hydroxide.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

Allergen labelling

  • EU allergen list: sulphur dioxide and sulphites. A sulphite. Annex II item 12 requires sulphites to be declared where the food as consumed contains more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre, counted as total sulphur dioxide.

The EU’s list of allergens an ingredients list must emphasise is Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, Annex II (consolidated text of 1 April 2025). Whether a product must declare one depends on what its additive was actually made from, which the label may not show; see the allergen origin index.

CAS registry number
10257-55-3
InChIKey
GBAOBIBJACZTNA-UHFFFAOYSA-L
PubChem
CID 10154041

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 226 Calcium sulphite

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
218-235-4
Chemical name
Calcium sulphite
Chemical formula
CaSO₃·2H₂O
Molecular weight
156,17
Assay
Content not less than 95 % of CaSO₃·2H₂O and not less than 39 % of SO₂
Description
White crystals or white crystalline powder

Identification

Test for sulphite
Passes test
Test for calcium
Passes test

Purity criteria

Iron
Not more than 10 mg/kg based on the SO₂ content
Selenium
Not more than 5 mg/kg based on the SO₂ content
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 226

Authorised in other additives, enzymes, flavourings and nutrients

These authorisations are not for use in food. They let this substance be used inside another additive, a food enzyme, a flavouring or a nutrient preparation — often as a carrier — and it reaches food only as part of that product. Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.

PartMay be used inMaximum levelCitation
Annex III, Part 2: Food additives other than carriers in food additivesColour preparations (except E163 anthocyanins, E 150 b caustic sulphite caramel and E 150 d sulphite ammonia caramel)Authorised as a member of Table 3 of Part 6 (Sulphur dioxide — sulphites), listed as "E 220-E 228 Sulphur dioxide — sulphites (Table 3 of Part 6)" Note (1): Except enzymes authorised as food additives. Note (2): E 163 anthocyanins may contain up to 100 000 mg/kg sulphites. E 150 b caustic sulphite caramel and E 150 d sulphite ammonia caramel may contain 2 000 mg/kg according to the purity criteria (Directive 2008/128/EC).100 mg/kg in the preparation and 2 mg/kg expressed as SO₂ in the final product as calculatedRegulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex III, Part 2, via Table 3 of Part 6

Every name it appears under

38 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E226

CAS registry number

  • 10257-55-3
  • 15091-91-5

As it appears in regulation

  • Calcium sulphite

Other names

  • Calcium sulfite
  • CALCIUM SULFITE (1:1)
  • CALCIUM SULFITE (CASO3)
  • CALCIUM SULFITE (E 226)
  • Calcium sulphite
  • Calciumsulfit
  • Calciumsulfite
  • CaO3S
  • E 226
  • INS NO.226
  • INS-226
  • Sulfurous acid, calcium salt (1:1)
  • SULFUROUS ACID, CALCIUMSALT (1:1), HYDRATE (8CI,9CI)

Systematic names

  • calcium sulfurous acid

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADI0.7 mg/kg bw/day—JECFA1998

Evidence and how bodies read it

What assessing bodies concluded

Each conclusion is paraphrased in the body's own framing, from the published opinion linked beneath it. Where bodies differ, both stand; this site does not adjudicate between them or add a view of its own.

  1. EFSA 2022

    In a follow-up to the 2016 re-evaluation, the FAF Panel found no substantial reduction in uncertainties for sulfur dioxide and sulfites (E 220–E 228), considered the database inadequate to derive an ADI, and withdrew the temporary group ADI. Using a margin of exposure approach based on effects on visual evoked potentials, it concluded that estimated dietary exposures raise a safety concern, and recommended tighter limits for toxic elements.

    Source document

  2. EFSA 2016

    The ANS Panel concluded that the group ADI of 0.7 mg SO2 equivalent/kg bw/day for sulfur dioxide and sulfites (E 220–E 228) remained adequate but should be considered temporary while the limited database was improved, and recommended a re-evaluation. It concluded that estimated exposure was higher than the group ADI for all population groups.

    Source document

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 226?
E 226 is Calcium sulphite. Calcium sulphite is one of the EU's sulphite preservatives, used in dried and prepared fruit and vegetables, wine and other drinks. In the EU sulphites must be declared as an allergen above 10 mg per kilogram or litre, expressed as sulphur dioxide.
Where is Calcium sulphite permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, the EU and Great Britain permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Calcium sulphite vegan?
Yes. Calcium sulphite is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

Machine-readable: a JSON record of this additive is given on request —how to ask for access.

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