Yes. Sulphur dioxide and sulphites are one of the 14 allergens that must be declared on UK and EU food labels. They can cause reactions — particularly in people with asthma — including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis.

Does wine contain E220?

Almost all wine contains sulphites, either added (as E220) or naturally produced during fermentation. UK law requires wine labels to state 'Contains Sulphites' if levels exceed 10 mg/L. 'Sulphite-free' wines exist but are rare and typically more expensive.

Yes. Sulphur dioxide is an inorganic compound and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. However, the wine or food it's used in may not be vegan for other reasons (e.g., fining agents in wine).

Preservative

What is E220? (Food Additive Explained)

E220 is sulphur dioxide (SO₂) — a preservative and antioxidant used in wine, dried fruit, soft drinks, and many other foods. It's one of the 14 allergens that must be declared on UK food labels, as it can trigger reactions in people with asthma or sulphite sensitivity.

What is E220?

Full name: Sulphur Dioxide

E220 is sulphur dioxide, a gas with a sharp, pungent smell. It has been used as a food preservative for centuries — the Romans used burning sulphur to preserve wine. In modern food production, it's used either as a gas or in the form of sulphite salts (E221–E228). It's one of the most effective preservatives available and is particularly valued for its ability to prevent browning and maintain colour in dried fruits and light-coloured foods.

What does E220 do in food?

E220 works as both a preservative and an antioxidant. It kills bacteria and moulds, prevents enzymatic browning (which turns cut fruit brown), and preserves the colour of dried foods. In wine, it prevents oxidation and controls unwanted bacterial fermentation. Without sulphur dioxide, dried apricots would be brown instead of orange, and wine would spoil much faster.

Where is E220 found?

E220 is commonly found in:

Wine, cider, and beer
Dried fruits (apricots, raisins, mangoes)
Fruit juices and cordials
Pickled foods and vinegar
Sausages and processed meats
Pre-prepared salads and vegetables

Is E220 bad for you?

E220 is a declared allergen in the UK and EU. People with asthma are particularly susceptible — sulphites can trigger bronchospasm (airway tightening) in around 5–10% of asthma sufferers. Symptoms can include wheezing, coughing, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. For the general population without sulphite sensitivity, E220 is considered safe at normal dietary levels. EFSA has set a group ADI of 0.7 mg/kg body weight per day for sulphur dioxide and sulphites. UK law requires sulphites above 10 mg/kg to be declared on the label, and they're highlighted as an allergen in bold.

Why E220 matters for food choices

E220 is important because it's one of the few food additives that's also a declared allergen — making it a genuine health concern for a significant minority of people. Under NOVA, its presence contributes to a product's classification as processed or ultra-processed. If you're sensitive to sulphites, you need to check labels carefully. If you're not, E220 is still a useful indicator of how much a food has been industrially treated to extend shelf life and maintain appearance.

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