Is Sodium Sulfite Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Sodium Sulfite is restricted in United States (banned from fresh produce and salad bars per FDA 1986 action), European Union (ADI 0.7 mg/kg body weight as sulfur dioxide equivalent), Australia (mandatory labeling if above 10 ppm), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Sodium Sulfite on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Dried fruits (apricots, raisins), Wine (most conventional wines), Seafood (shrimp, scallops — to prevent melanosis/blackening).
TL;DR: Sodium Sulfite is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Sodium Sulfite: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | Dried fruits (apricots, raisins), Wine (most conventional wines), Seafood (shrimp, scallops — to prevent melanosis/blackening), Some commercial bread products, Pickled vegetables, Potato products |
What is Sodium Sulfite?
Sodium sulfite is an inorganic sulfite salt used as a food preservative and antioxidant. It releases sulfur dioxide when it contacts water or acid, which acts as the active antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. Part of the broader sulfite family of food additives (including sulfur dioxide E220, sodium bisulfite E222, and others).
Why is Sodium Sulfite used in food?
Sodium sulfite prevents oxidative browning, microbial growth, and color deterioration in foods. Used in wine, dried fruits, preserved vegetables, shellfish, and some processed meat products.
What regulators have flagged about Sodium Sulfite
Sulfites are among the more significant food allergy/intolerance triggers. An estimated 1 in 100 people, and up to 5% of asthmatics, are sulfite-sensitive. Reactions can include urticaria, angioedema, bronchospasm, and in severe cases anaphylaxis. Sulfite-induced asthma can be severe; several deaths attributable to sulfite-triggered anaphylaxis have been documented. The FDA banned sulfites from fresh produce and restaurant salad bars in 1986 after several deaths and severe reactions were linked to sulfite-treated salads. FDA mandates that sulfite content above 10 ppm be declared on US food labels. All forms of sulfites (E220-E228) share these sensitization concerns.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Sodium Sulfite with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Sodium Sulfite →
Audited products that don't contain Sodium Sulfite.
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Sodium Sulfite and pregnancy: common questions
Is Sodium Sulfite banned anywhere?
Yes. Sodium Sulfite is restricted in United States (banned from fresh produce and salad bars per FDA 1986 action), European Union (ADI 0.7 mg/kg body weight as sulfur dioxide equivalent), Australia (mandatory labeling if above 10 ppm). The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Sodium Sulfite during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Sodium Sulfite?
Commonly found in Dried fruits (apricots, raisins), Wine (most conventional wines), Seafood (shrimp, scallops — to prevent melanosis/blackening), Some commercial bread products, Pickled vegetables, Potato products. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Sodium Sulfite.
What can I use instead of Sodium Sulfite?
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) provides antioxidant protection without sulfite allergen concerns. Modified atmosphere packaging and refrigeration reduce the need for sulfite preservation. Organic dried fruits without sulfites are widely availabl See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Sodium Sulfite or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- FDA Ban of Sulfites on Fresh Produce 1986 — FDA
- EFSA Scientific Opinion on Sulfur Dioxide (E220) and Sulfite Group 2016 — EFSA
- Cleveland Clinic on Sulfite Sensitivity — Cleveland Clinic
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/10/2026.