Is E220 halal?

What is E220?

Sulphur dioxide is a gas made mainly by burning sulphur. In food it is used as a gas or in solution to stop browning and microbial spoilage. It is closely related to the sulphite salts E221 to E228, which release it in food.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It is a simple mineral compound made from sulphur and oxygen, so the additive itself is generally treated as halal. Any issue lies in the foods it is used in, such as wine, or sausages, where the meat must be halal. The preservative does not change the status of the food either way.

How to check the label

Look for “sulphur dioxide”, “sulphites” or E220 in the ingredients or allergen information. For sausages and similar products, check that the meat is halal; for drinks, check that they are alcohol-free.

Where you'll find it

• dried fruit
• wine
• fruit juices
• breakfast sausages

Good to know

• In the EU and UK, sulphur dioxide and sulphites are allergens that must be declared when present above 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre, expressed as SO2.
• In 2022 EFSA withdrew the temporary acceptable daily intake and found a possible safety concern for high consumers.
• Sulphites can cause reactions in some people, especially people with asthma.

Similar additives

• E200 Sorbic acid Generally halal
• E202 Potassium sorbate Generally halal
• E211 Sodium benzoate Generally halal
• E250 Sodium nitrite Generally halal
• E260 Acetic acid Generally halal
• E282 Calcium propionate Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EFSA follow-up re-evaluation of sulphur dioxide and sulphites (E 220–228) (2022)
2. FSAI: sulphur dioxide and sulphites

Frequently asked questions