What is E220 Food Additive?
E220 is the code for sulfur dioxide, a colorless gas with a pungent smell that is widely used as a preservative and antioxidant in the food industry. Its primary function is to prevent food spoilage by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. It also helps prevent browning and maintains the fresh appearance of many food products, which is why it is often used in dried fruits like apricots and raisins. Beyond its use as a gas, related compounds such as sodium or potassium sulfites (E221-E228) also release sulfur dioxide and are used for similar purposes.
Side Effects Primarily Affect Sensitive Individuals
While E220 is considered safe for consumption by most of the general population in small amounts, it is not without risks, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or sensitivities. The most significant concerns revolve around allergic-type reactions and respiratory issues, particularly in people with asthma. A small percentage of asthmatics have a sulfite sensitivity, and for them, ingesting E220 can trigger adverse reactions.
Respiratory Symptoms
For asthmatics and individuals with sulfite sensitivity, respiratory issues are the most common side effects. This is because when consumed, sulfites can release sulfur dioxide gas, which can irritate and constrict the airways.
- Asthma Attacks: Exposure to E220 can trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The severity can vary, from mild to life-threatening bronchoconstriction.
- Coughing and Wheezing: These symptoms are often the first sign of a reaction in sensitive individuals.
- Runny Nose (Rhinitis): Non-asthmatic individuals can also experience rhinitis or a stuffy nose from sulfite sensitivity.
Gastrointestinal and Other Allergic-Type Reactions
Beyond respiratory problems, E220 can cause a variety of other symptoms in intolerant or sensitive people. These are often described as pseudoallergic reactions, meaning they mimic allergic responses but do not involve the immune system's IgE antibodies.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: Large amounts of ingested sulfites have been linked to stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
- Skin Reactions: Symptoms like hives (urticaria), flushing, and skin swelling (angioedema) have been reported.
- Anaphylaxis (Rare): In extremely rare and severe cases, a life-threatening anaphylactic shock can occur, involving a significant drop in blood pressure and circulatory collapse.
Other Potential Health Concerns
Research has explored other potential long-term effects and health concerns related to high sulfite intake, including its impact on nutrient absorption.
- Vitamin B1 Destruction: Some studies suggest that E220 can destroy vital vitamin B1 (thiamine) in food, potentially wiping out its content in a meal.
- Calcium Loss: Older animal studies have indicated a possible link between sulfite consumption and increased calcium loss from the body, raising concerns about osteoporosis risk, though more conclusive research is needed.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Certain bacteria in the gut can feed on sulfur compounds, and some researchers hypothesize a connection between sulfite consumption and inflammatory bowel diseases, though this is also an area of ongoing study.
Comparison of E220 Effects on Asthmatics vs. Non-Asthmatics
| Feature | Sensitive Asthmatics | Non-Asthmatic General Population |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfite Reaction | Highly probable | Less common; typically safe |
| Primary Symptoms | Wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing | Potential for gastrointestinal issues (cramps, diarrhea) with high doses |
| Symptom Severity | Can be mild to severe, including anaphylaxis | Mild symptoms, if any, usually disappear quickly |
| Mechanism | Inhalation of sulfur dioxide gas and/or low sulfite oxidase enzyme levels | Generally no adverse reaction, as most can metabolize sulfites effectively |
| Risk Factor | Significant risk; a known trigger for bronchoconstriction | Very low risk for adverse reactions |
How to Identify and Avoid E220
Consumers who want to limit or avoid E220 need to be vigilant, as it is used in a wide range of products. Regulations require food labels to declare sulfites if the concentration exceeds 10 parts per million (ppm).
Common Sources of E220
- Dried Fruit: Preservatives like E220 are used to maintain the vibrant color of items such as dried apricots and golden raisins. Organic dried fruit does not contain added sulfites.
- Wine: Both naturally occurring and added sulfites are found in wine. Bottles in many regions must declare the presence of sulfites.
- Processed Foods: Sulfites can be in a wide variety of processed items, including some sauces, juices, and potato products like powdered purées and hash browns.
- Seafood: Some seafood, particularly shrimp and crabs, may contain sulfites, though labeling is required.
Conclusion
While E220 functions as an effective preservative for many food products, its side effects are a genuine concern, particularly for individuals with asthma or sulfite sensitivities. For this vulnerable group, reactions can range from mild discomfort, such as hives or stomach cramps, to severe respiratory distress or, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis. The destruction of vitamin B1 is another documented effect of E220. By reading labels and understanding which products are likely to contain sulfites, consumers can make more informed choices about their dietary intake and minimize their risk of adverse reactions.
Considerations for Individuals
- For Asthmatics: It is highly recommended to speak with a doctor or allergist about sulfite sensitivity. Avoiding products with E220 and other sulfite additives is a key preventive measure.
- For the General Public: For most people, E220 in regulated amounts poses little to no threat. However, being aware of the potential for gastrointestinal upset from high consumption is still prudent.
- Regulatory Efforts: Due to increasing consumer awareness and recent safety evaluations, organizations like the EFSA have been re-evaluating and tightening acceptable daily intake levels for sulfites.
For more detailed information on sulfite sensitivity and diagnosis, consult an allergist or visit a reputable health resource like the Cleveland Clinic's page on Sulfite Allergy & Sensitivity.
