E226 - Calcium Sulfite

Calcium sulfite is the calcium salt of sulphurous acid.

Calcium sulfite appears as a white, unstable powder that reacts with oxygen to form calcium sulfate. In the presence of acids, it originates sulphurous acid, which is a preservative.

In addition to the more traditional preservative function, calcium sulfite can be used as a bleaching agent in sugar production. It also has the function of increasing the stability of canned vegetables.

It can be contained in cider, sugar, fruit juices etc.

It could reduce the vitamin content within various foods.

Calcium sulfite does not appear to have any adverse health effects.

ADI DOSE: 0.7 mg per kg of body weight.