Allervibe
E227
Calcium bisulphite
A calcium sulphite that exists only in solution, used as a preservative and antioxidant.
i Additive Details
| Is E227 Calcium bisulphite safe?
Sulphites are one of the 14 allergens that must be declared under EU Regulation 1169/2011 whenever they are present above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre expressed as SO2. Sulphite sensitivity is well documented in people with asthma, who may react with wheezing, chest tightness or bronchospasm. Most sulphite reactions are intolerance rather than classical IgE-mediated allergy, although rare IgE-mediated cases have been reported. Beer and cider are not always thought of as sulphited drinks, but sulphites above 10 mg/litre have to be declared on them in exactly the same way.
| Uses
Used mainly in brewing, where it preserves and protects against oxidation, and in cider making and fruit processing. It is supplied as an aqueous solution because the solid salt cannot be isolated. The calcium it contributes also helps keep pieces of processed fruit and vegetables firm.
| Interactions
In solution it provides bisulphite ions that bind aldehydes and ketones, block enzymatic browning and degrade thiamine (vitamin B1). Its calcium content can precipitate with oxalates, phosphates and pectin, which affects clarity and sediment in drinks. Adding acid drives sulphur dioxide out of the solution as a gas.
| Origin
Made by passing sulphur dioxide through water containing suspended calcium hydroxide or limestone. The same chemistry underlies the sulphite process used in wood pulping, but food-grade solutions are produced to their own specification.
| Daily Intake
A group ADI of 0.7 mg per kg of body weight per day, expressed as SO2, applies jointly to E220 to E228 rather than to each salt individually. EFSA's 2022 follow-up to its re-evaluation of the group concluded that the available data are not sufficient to confirm the ADI and that estimated intake can exceed it in some consumer groups.
Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related additives
- E223 Sodium metabisulphite A white crystalline salt that releases sulphur dioxide in water and is the most widely used sulphite preservative.
- E224 Potassium metabisulphite The potassium form of metabisulphite, used mainly as a preservative and antioxidant in wine and cider.
- E226 Calcium sulphite A calcium salt of sulphurous acid with low water solubility, used as a preservative and antioxidant.
- E228 Potassium bisulphite A potassium sulphite supplied as an aqueous solution and used as a preservative and antioxidant.
- E210 Benzoic acid A weak organic acid used as a preservative against yeasts, moulds and some bacteria in acidic foods.
- E212 Potassium benzoate The potassium salt of benzoic acid, used as a preservative in acidic foods and drinks.
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