Sodium metabisulphite

Sodium metabisulphite is a food ingredient commonly used as a preservative to help extend the shelf life of various food products. It is a synthetic compound made up of sodium, sulphur, and oxygen. You may come across it on ingredient lists of packaged foods and drinks.

To produce sodium metabisulphite, sulphur dioxide gas is combined with a solution of sodium carbonate, resulting in the formation of sodium metabisulphite crystals. These crystals are then dried and processed into a fine powder, which is what is used in food preservation. The compound is stable and can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and preserve the colour and flavour of foods.

You might spot sodium metabisulphite in foods like dried fruits, canned vegetables, and certain beverages. Its role in these products is to prevent them from spoiling too quickly and to maintain their quality during storage. The ingredient helps to inhibit bacterial growth and oxidation, ensuring that the food stays fresh for longer.

Foods in the CalorieStar database containing Sodium metabisulphite

Sainsbury's British Pork Chipolata Sausage & Bacon Wraps Pigs in Blankets, Butchers Choice
Sainsbury's British Pork Chipolatas Wrapped in Bacon, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's British Pork Cranberry & Apple Stuffing Log, Butchers Choice
Sainsbury's British Pork Sage & Onion Stuffing Balls, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's British Pork Sage & Onion Stuffing, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's British Pork Sausages, Taste the Difference
Holme Farmed Venison Burgers
Plant Pioneers Caramelised Onion Shroomdogs
Mr Kipling Cherry Bakewells
Sainsbury's Chickpeas in Water

Higgidy Chorizo, Feta & Pepper Frittata
Tuc Crackers
Tuc Crackers Savoury Sandwich
Plant Pioneers Cumberland Shroomdogs
Chicago Town Deep Dish Vegan Cheeseburger Pizzas
Asda Extra Special Hot & Smoky Hot Dog Sausages
Asda Extra Special Lemon Curd
Plant Pioneers Fishless Fingers
Holme Farmed Venison Grillsteaks
Plant Pioneers Grown Delicious Mince Pies
Sainsbury's Iced Topped Mince Pies
Sainsbury's Just Cook Beef Meatballs with Tomato Sauce & Parmesan
Sainsbury's Just Cook Chicken Breast with Pork, Sage & Onion Stuffing
Plant Pioneers Meatfree Wellington
Sainsbury's Mince Pies